Researchers Develop Solar Cells from Moon Dust for Lunar Energy Needs

Moonglass solar cells, made from simulated lunar regolith, show promise in reducing costs and providing durable energy for future Moon settlements.

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.