Are Metal Halide Perovskite Solar Cells Ready for SpaceApplications?

The appeal of metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has been widelydemonstrated in thefield of photovoltaic technology. On account of the excellent opticaland electrical properties, as well as compatibility withflexible substrates, the PSCs alsohold the highest record of specific power for lightweight solar cell devices, suggestingexcellent promise in space applications. Hence, there is increasing interest in theperformance of PSCs in space environments where radiation beams and thermal cyclingcan cause extreme stress on the devices. In this Perspective, we provide a brief summary ofthe research on PSCs for space applications. The radiation tolerance and thermal stabilityof PSCs and the fundamental mechanisms are discussed and analyzed. Key challengesfacing PSC technology toward future space applications are demonstrated. ThisPerspective features the prospect of PSCs as the next frontier in space PV technology.

Automated summary

The appeal of metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) lies in their excellent optical and electrical properties, as well as their compatibility with flexible substrates. These lightweight solar cell devices hold the highest record of specific power, indicating great potential for space applications. However, PSCs face challenges in space environments due to radiation and thermal cycling. This Perspective provides a brief summary of research on PSCs for space applications, discussing their radiation tolerance, thermal stability, and fundamental mechanisms, while highlighting the key challenges in future space applications and the prospect of PSCs as the next frontier in space PV technology.