As global space operations continue to expand, the reliable provision of power to satellites and spacecraft is becoming increasingly important.

In a bid to tackle this problem, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has selected Tokyo-based firm Maxell for its Space Technologies Rapid Evaluation Program on Small Satellite (JAXA-STEPS).

Under the agreement, Japanese battery manufacturer Maxell will collaborate with the space agency on the development and demonstration of high-heat-resistant all-solid-state batteries designed to improve performance in space environments.

JAXA’s new space battery project

Maxell’s motto, “Micro batteries. Maximum impact,” emphasizes the firm’s strategy of delivering substantial value in a compact form factor. The company has highlighted four key benefits of all-solid-state batteries: long life, high heat resistance, high output, and large capacity.

The collaborative project, meanwhile, aims to achieve two main goals. Titled ‘Development and Demonstration of High-Heat-Resistant All-Solid-State Batteries to Maximize Spacecraft Missions’, its aim is to reduce the overall weight of small satellites and increase their design flexibility. 

Weight is practically a currency in space. Reducing the use of heavy machinery can drastically lower the cost of a space mission. It can also allow for more scientific, military, or other payloads to fly to space in a single launch.

Traditional spacecraft require extensive temperature control systems due to extreme temperature swings in space. All-solid-state batteries that operate reliably at high temperatures have the potential to cut the need for such equipment.

Maxell has developed all-solid-state batteries capable of maintaining high safety levels at temperatures above 100°C (212°F). In the joint research, the company aims to match the energy density of conventional lithium-ion batteries while delivering stable output and long service life across the wide temperature ranges encountered in orbit. Demonstration units will be prepared for potential installation in satellites.

JAXA-STEPS is accelerating the testing of technologies critical to future missions by using small satellites for rapid demonstrations. The program supports both public and private sector advancements. By minimizing thermal management hardware, the new batteries could allow satellites to carry more payload or reduce launch costs through lower mass.

Advanced battery chemistries

The JAXA-Maxell collaboration reflects growing interest in advanced battery chemistries for demanding applications. All-solid-state designs replace liquid electrolytes with solid materials, offering potential advantages in safety, thermal stability, and energy density. If the technology is proven in space, it could also benefit other high-reliability sectors, including industrial equipment and extreme-environment electronics.

Maxell plans to expand the applications for its all-solid-state batteries and accelerate the development of solutions tailored to customer needs. Details of the selection were outlined in a company press statement.

Reliable, lightweight power systems remain a persistent engineering challenge. This initiative aims to address the problem as the space industry continues to grow, with an increasing number of small satellites deployed for communications, Earth observation, and scientific research. Maxell’s work with JAXA could contribute to more efficient and robust satellite platforms.