by Nicki Gorny, University of Toledo
edited by Lisa Lock, reviewed by Robert Egan
scientific editor
associate editor
(a) Schematic device structure of antimony chalcogenides thin film solar cells. Simulated proton interaction with Sb2S3 devices for (b) 100 and (c) 300 keV protons. Credit: Solar RRL (2025). DOI: 10.1002/solr.202500699
Solar cells face significant challenges when deployed in outer space, where extremes in the environment decrease the efficiency and longevity they enjoy back on Earth. University of Toledo physicists are taking on these challenges at the Wright Center for Photovoltaics Innovation and Commercialization, in line with a large-scale research project supported by the Air Force Research Laboratory.
One recent advancement pertains to an emerging technology that utilizes antimony compounds as light-absorbing semiconductors. A group of UToledo faculty and students recently published a first-of-its-kind assessment exploring the promising characteristics of these antimony chalcogenide-based solar cells for space applications in the journal Solar RRL, which highlighted the work on its front cover.
“Antimony chalcogenide solar cells exhibit superior radiation robustness compared to the conventional technologies we’re deploying in space,” said Alisha Adhikari, a doctoral student in physics who co-led the team of undergraduate, graduate and faculty researchers at UToledo. “But they’ll need to become much more efficient before they become a competitive alternative for future space missions.”
The team of physicists plans to explore new ways to harvest solar energy amid extreme temperatures, high particle radiation and other space-related challenges.
Alisha Adhikari, a physics doctoral student (left) and post-doctoral researcher Dr. Vijay Karade prepare autoclaves for deposition at the Wright Center for Photovoltaics Innovation and Commercialization. Credit: University of Toledo
The team is led by Dr. Randall Ellingson, a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and Wright Center for Photovoltaics Innovation and Commercialization Endowed Chair. Other collaborators include postdoctoral researcher Dr. Vijay Karade and doctoral student Scott Lambright, who co-led the research with Adhikari, as well as Dr. Yanfa Yan and Dr. Zhaoning Song.
The team’s latest research reflects a growing interest in antimony compounds as a key material in the construction of solar cells.
Alisha Adhikari et al, Assessing Proton Radiation Hardness of Antimony Chalcogenide Solar Cells, Solar RRL (2025). DOI: 10.1002/solr.202500699
Extraterrestrial Environment
Provided by University of Toledo
Use this form if you have come across a typo, inaccuracy or would like to send an edit request for the content on this page. For general inquiries, please use our contact form. For general feedback, use the public comments section below (please adhere to guidelines).
Please select the most appropriate category to facilitate processing of your request
Optional (only if you’d like a response)
Your feedback is important to us. However, we do not guarantee individual replies due to the high volume of messages.
We keep our content available to everyone. Consider supporting Science X’s mission by getting a premium account.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X’s editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content’s credibility:
fact-checked
trusted source
proofread
Antimony chalcogenide-based solar cells demonstrate enhanced resistance to radiation compared to conventional space solar cell materials, making them promising for use in outer space. However, their efficiency must be improved to compete with existing technologies. Ongoing research focuses on optimizing these materials for the harsh conditions encountered in space.
This summary was automatically generated using LLM. Full disclaimer
33 shares
Physicists eye emerging technology for solar cells in outer space
Note:
Your email address is used only to let the recipient know who sent the email. Neither your address nor the recipient’s address will be used for any other purpose. The information you enter will appear in your e-mail message and is not retained by Tech Xplore in any form.
About
Phys.org™ is a leading web-based science, research and technology news service which covers a full range of topics.
Phys.org is a part of Science X network. With a global reach of over 10 million monthly readers and featuring dedicated websites for science (Phys.org), technology (Tech Xplore) and medical research (Medical Xpress), the Science X network is one of the largest online communities for science-minded people.
Science X Account
Forgot Password?
Not a member? Sign up.
Identify the news topics you want to see and prioritize an order.
Science X Daily and the Weekly Email Newsletter are free features that allow you to receive your favorite sci-tech news updates in your email inbox
© Phys.org 2003 – 2026 powered by Science X Network
Your favorite sci-tech news, delivered for free with Science X Daily and Weekly email newsletters. Subscribe now and get a confirmation link to customize your preferences!
Science never stops. Get notified about trending stories.
