Long Beach–based space company Rocket Lab has launched a new space-grade solar cell that addresses a key supply chain bottleneck for spacecraft and satellites, while maintaining modern efficiency standards. The solar cell is called Inverted Metamorphic (IMM) Apex, which is produced without germanium substrates. Germanium is a scarce mineral critical to the production of highly efficient radiation-hardened solar cells. Most modern satellites and spacecraft need solar arrays for power generation, and many legacy solar cells on satellites use germanium substrates.

According to the company, the cells are 40% lighter than existing solar cells in the same class, and have a beginning of life solar conversion efficiency of 31.5%. As of 2026, some of the highest performing solar cells that rely on elements like germanium deliver a conversion efficiency around 32%. Silicone-based cells provide around 20% efficiency.…