mPower Technology, a New Mexico-based company, has commenced automated, high-volume production of its space-qualified solar modules in New York. The announcement, made on November 11, highlights the company's efforts to scale up production to meet the burgeoning demand from satellite constellations.
"Typically, it's a very manual process," said mPower CEO Kevin Hell. He further explained that this traditional approach is "very high-touch labor, very expensive – and it hasn't been automated to date." By utilizing commercial off-the-shelf silicon-based processes and equipment, mPower aims to produce more customizable and cost-effective modules compared to those using gallium arsenide.
Universal Instruments, a contract manufacturer, has been instrumental in ramping up automated production at its Conklin, New York, facility. Since initial validation runs this summer, the facility has achieved an annual capacity of 1 megawatt. Hell anticipates doubling this output by mid-2026 with the addition of a second production line.
According to Hell, the planned scale of the facility is approximately four times that of a typical gallium arsenide-based manufacturer. "We're not aware of anything that's larger in terms of throughput capacity," he stated. He highlighted that "Gallium arsenide has primarily powered geosynchronous satellites — limited, one-off missions," while mPower's technology is geared toward the expanding needs of "large [low Earth orbit (LEO)] constellations … lunar missions, space-based power."
One of mPower’s largest contracts involves providing solar modules for over 200 Lightspeed broadband satellites in LEO. MDA Space is constructing these satellites for Canada's Telesat, with SpaceX scheduled to begin launches in early 2027. This program represents over 1.1 megawatts of solar power. These satellites are engineered for a 10-year lifespan in orbit, significantly longer than other LEO broadband spacecraft.
Other clients utilizing mPower's DragonSCALES technology include Lynk Global, Blue Origin, Firefly Aerospace, and Gravitics. However, Hell noted that only six satellites are currently utilizing this technology in orbit. In August, Lockheed Martin Ventures invested in mPower, increasing a Series B round to over $24 million.
In addition to expanding production for commercial and government clients, Hell said the funding will be used for research and development aimed at improving performance and radiation resilience for various orbits, including potential lunar applications. According to Hell, "Typically, a constellation has to replenish satellites as their solar array power degrades, but if you’re able to increase the radiation resistance and radiation recovery, you’re able to extend the overall mission life," thus reducing the need for frequent launches. Hell also noted that Lockheed's support strengthens mPower's position in the U.S. defense market, reflecting growing national security interest in domestic production.