Flexell Space, a Korean company specializing in space energy technologies led by CEO Taehoon Ahn, has announced the signing of a collaboration agreement with Satoro, a Singaporean company specializing in CubeSat solutions led by CEO Mark Loh. The agreement aims to conduct In-Orbit Demonstration and In-Orbit Validation (IOD/IOV) for the next generation of solar cells designed for space use.
The collaboration plan includes conducting two real-space performance demonstration missions, the first scheduled for 2027 and the second for 2028, with the satellites for both missions to be launched aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets. Flexell Space previously carried out two experimental launch missions via Korean KSLV-II rockets in November 2025 and October 2026, and the new agreement builds upon this experience to expand the collection of operational data necessary for commercialization.
What does the agreement entail in practice?
Under the agreed terms, Satoro will handle the manufacturing of the satellites designated for the two missions, while Flexell Space will supply the solar cells and test units to be integrated into those satellites. The two companies will collaborate to match the technical requirements of the satellite platforms and experimental payloads, with the goal of evaluating operational characteristics and field performance in orbit.
The solar cell technology developed by the Korean company—which originated as an internal startup within Hanwha Systems—is based on Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) and perovskite technologies, with a focus on providing low-cost, large-area, and ultra-lightweight power solutions for CubeSats and space infrastructure.
Validation and Implications
Through these orbital tests, Flexell Space seeks to compare ground test results with actual data from space and monitor changes in power generation capacity over time. The collected data will be used to support the optimization of future designs, enhance product reliability, and meet the technical standards required by global markets and future space commerce clients.
For its part, Singaporean company Satoro, which has established a track record since 2021 of 11 successfully launched satellites across eight missions, provides integrated services including satellite manufacturing, payload integration, and launch operations management. This offers an integrated test platform that supports its partners in validating their new technologies and paving the way for their commercialization.