Overview

• Scientists have created solar cells using simulated moon dust, achieving 10% efficiency with potential to reach 23% using clearer materials.
• Moonglass solar cells are lightweight, radiation-resistant, and could reduce spacecraft launch mass by 99.4% and transport costs by 99%.
• The cells produce up to 100 times more energy per gram compared to conventional solar panels, making them highly efficient for space use.
• Manufacturing is simplified by using concentrated sunlight to melt lunar regolith into glass, eliminating the need for complex purification processes.
• Researchers plan to test these solar cells in real lunar conditions to address challenges such as vacuum compatibility, material stability, and low gravity effects.