Hanwha Systems to supply solar panels for observation satellite on Nuri

[Courtesy of Hanwha Systems Co.]

Hanwha Systems Co. has decided to supply new space-grade solar panels to an observation satellite developed by Inha University to verify their use in space.

Hanwha Systems announced on Monday that its in-house venture, Flexell Space, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Inha University to strengthen cooperation in satellite and solar panel technology.

Under the MoU, Flexell Space will supply Space Tandem Flexible Solar Panels to the university’s observation satellite, INHARoSAT, which has been selected as a payload for the Nuri Rocket’s 4th launch scheduled for the second half of 2025.

INHARoSAT, selected as an observation satellite in the 2022 CubeSat Competition hosted by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, will be deployed in the Nuri Rocket’s 4th mission.

The Space Tandem Flexible Solar Panels are next-generation solar panels that stack two solar panels to mutually complement the absorption of sunlight at different wavelengths, thereby increasing power efficiency.

They are gaining attention as a new power source for satellites and spacecraft due to their light weight, high output, and low cost compared to existing products.

With their flexible nature, these solar panels can be unfolded to achieve the desired output. They can be applied to various satellite surfaces, including small areas and curved surfaces.

Inha University expects that the latest MoU will significantly improve the power productivity of small satellites and serve as an important milestone in confirming the potential of space solar power generation.