Airbus selects mPower Technology's solar power solution for SATCOM
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Solar energy company mPower Technology, Inc. in Albuquerque, N.M. has been chosen by Airbus Netherlands B.V. to provide solar power modules (SPMs) for the Sparkwing solar arrays in support of the MDA AURORA satellite program.
The MDA AURORA program is a next-generation satellite communication (SATCOM) system designed to support software-defined satellites and large-scale constellations. The program's goal is to extend communication networks globally, providing connectivity to remote and underserved areas. The technology behind AURORA integrates advanced satellite, software, and communication technologies, enabling flexible, scalable, and adaptable satellite systems.
The initial delivery will include solar modules for more than 200 spacecraft, generating over 1.1 megawatts of power, beginning in 2025.
Airbus will supply more than 200 Sparkwing solar arrays for the MDA AURORA program. Each array consists of two wings with five panels, creating a total photovoltaic area exceeding 30 square meters. The DragonSCALES SPMs, which will be integrated into the arrays, will be produced in upstate New York by Universal Instruments Corporation, mPower's manufacturing partner. The production facility has an annual capacity of 1.5 MW, with plans to expand further as needed.
Related: MDA Space taps Airbus to provide solar arrays for its satellite constellation
"We're at the forefront of a massive shift in the space industry where the focus has moved from simply chasing maximum efficiency to scaling production for cost-effectiveness," said Kevin Hell, mPower president and CEO. "With the economics of space evolving rapidly, driven largely by lower launch costs, mPower is uniquely positioned to lead. Our DragonSCALES technology is not just efficient; it's designed to be mass-produced at scale while maintaining the reliability needed for constellation programs. This contract with Airbus Netherlands reflects our ability to deliver the right balance of performance, cost, and manufacturing readiness that the industry now demands."
Rob van Hassel, Business Director of Solar Arrays at Airbus Netherlands, noted the strategic fit of mPower's technology. "mPower's solar-cell technology is the right choice for this mission for which it has the best price per watt in combination with our innovative Sparkwing solar arrays. Moreover, it's easily scalable and fits exactly with our industrialized production philosophy," he said.
Jamie Whitney
Jamie Whitney joined the staff of Military & Aerospace Electronics and Intelligent Aerospace. He brings seven years of print newspaper experience to the aerospace and defense electronics industry.
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