MicroLink Devices UK

MicroLink Devices pioneered the scale-up and commercialisation of the Epitaxial Lift-Off (ELO) process from Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) wafers.  This produces extremely lightweight and flexible multi-junction solar cells that are world-leading in performance and low mass.  These solar cells are five times lighter than conventional Ge-based multi-junction solar cells now used on space satellites, whilst having equal performance and lower manufacturing costs.  

MicroLinks’ ELO solar arrays are now being used on multiple high-altitude and smaller solar-powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platforms to provide power for multi-week long endurance missions.  ELO multi-junction solar cells are a disruptive innovation that enables significant solar power generation.  The flexibility and robust nature of the solar cells opens up entirely new design philosophies for satellite platform concepts.