News: Photovoltaics
23 October 2025
Ascent delivers thin-film PV test samples to ocean monitoring firm and space power lasing company
Ascent Solar Technologies Inc of Thornton, CO, USA – which designs and makes lightweight, flexible copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules that can be integrated into consumer products, off-grid applications and aerospace applications – has delivered test samples of its thin-film PV technology to both an ocean monitoring technology company (a developer of autonomous underwater vehicles capable of reaching anywhere in the ocean with a high degree of speed, endurance and sensing) and a space power lasing company (focused on advancing space and defense technologies).
With these test deliveries, Ascent says that it continues to push the limits of its solar technology in extreme environments. The ocean monitoring company will test the technology’s functionality and durability in aquatic terrestrial applications, with the intent of enabling persistent equipment operation of ocean-based monitoring technologies. The space power lasing company will test the technology’s space-based power beaming receiving capabilities, as it seeks out technologies that enable the transmission of power between satellites on orbit.
“We see underwater and space applications as unique opportunities for thin-film PV to thrive, as the technology’s lightweight, flexible and durable design allows it to withstand the immense pressures and tempestuous conditions that define these environments,” says CEO Paul Warley. “Our team looks forward to reviewing the findings from each of these tests, as we aim to unlock thin-film solar technology’s potential in both markets.”
Ascent raises CIGS PV production-scale efficiency record from 14% to 15.7%
Ascent gains order to revise space PV module design for receiving beamed power
