UK Space Agency Backs Structural Battery Innovation for Satellites

In a major step towards revolutionising satellite power systems, the UK Space Agency, following a recommendation from the European Space Agency, is supporting The SB Co and Open Cosmos in the development of Structural Electrical Power Systems for Satellites (SEPSS).

This pioneering project will explore the material qualification and space-worthiness of structural battery technology, enabling a satellite’s load-bearing panels to double as energy storage components. By integrating batteries directly into the structure, the technology aims to reduce mass and volume constraints while enhancing onboard power capacity—a game-changer for space missions where every gram and cubic centimetre counts.

"Mass and volume are at a premium in space, and power needs are only growing," said Oliver Burstall, CTO at The SB Co. "By making the battery part of the structure itself, SEPSS technology can enable lighter, smaller, and more efficient satellites without compromising power requirements."

While initially focused on microsatellites, this technology has the potential to scale for larger spacecraft and even launch vehicles, offering exponentially greater mass and volume savings as size increases.

Open Cosmos, a key partner in the project, specialises in the design, construction, launch, and operation of advanced satellites through its OpenOrbit end-to-end mission management platform.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing next-generation space power systems, with far-reaching implications for the future of satellite design, deep space exploration, and beyond.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Oliver Burstall

+447974827285www.thesb.co.uk