The evolution of space technology has accelerated over recent years, fueling a revolution in aerospace capabilities and ambitions. From the increasing cadence of satellite deployments to reusable launch systems and exploratory missions venturing farther into the solar system, the demands placed on energy storage systems have never been more exacting. Central to this transformation are batteries, which have gone from power reservoirs to sophisticated components that can make or break the success of a mission. Today, the battery landscape is undergoing rapid change, shaped by new materials science breakthroughs, engineering innovations, and the relentless pursuit of safer, lighter, and longer-lasting energy storage solutions.
Unique Challenges for Batteries in Space and Aerospace
In space and aerospace contexts, energy storage must meet a complex array of challenges. The environment is unforgiving: temperatures swing wildly between extremes, cosmic radiation constantly bombards equipment, and every gram of mass saved means a larger payload or longer mission duration. These factors push battery designers to the cutting edge of chemistry, materials, and system engineering.
Historically, lithium-ion batteries have served as the go-to chemistry for aerospace energy needs, thanks to their relatively high energy density and established manufacturing base. However, with increasing mission complexity, longer durations, and more stringent safety standards, the industry is seeking batteries that offer higher energy density, a longer lifespan, thermal resilience and improved adhesion.
Diverse Applications Drive Specific Battery Requirements
The applications demanding these advanced batteries are diverse. Launch vehicles, particularly those designed for reusability, require batteries that can sustain many cycles of intense charge and discharge while minimizing weight to maximize payload. Satellites, which rely on solar panels for primary power, need highly reliable batteries to store energy during eclipse periods when sunlight is unavailable. These batteries often must operate continuously over many years, enduring the harsh space environment. Deep space probes and planetary rovers operate under even more extreme conditions, facing intense cold, elevated radiation levels, and isolation from maintenance or replacement opportunities. In all cases, battery failure is not an option.
Key Technical Parameters
Energy Density
Looking closely at the technical demands reveals a landscape dominated by a few key parameters. Energy density remains paramount. Indeed, current lithium-ion aerospace batteries deliver between 250 to 300 Wh/kg, but missions pushing beyond low Earth orbit increasingly demand systems that exceed 700 Wh/kg without sacrificing safety. This increase allows spacecraft to carry more scientific instruments or extend mission lifetimes while keeping launch weights manageable.
Lifespan
Lifespan also factors heavily into aerospace battery selection. A commercial satellite in low Earth orbit expected to operate for 15 years may require batteries capable of 10,000 or more charge-discharge cycles with minimal degradation due to frequent sun-shadow transitions in each orbit. Meanwhile, reusable launch vehicles demand batteries that can endure hundreds of cycles with consistent performance.
Thermal Stability
Thermal stability is essential, as the risk of thermal runaway and the potential for catastrophic failure is unacceptable in both crewed missions and delicate satellite systems. Advances in battery management systems and thermal regulation have improved safety margins, yet the underlying chemistry must be inherently stable over a wide temperature range.
Improved Adhesion
Another critical aspect in battery design for aerospace is adhesion. During launch, satellites and other payloads are subjected to extreme mechanical stress, including high-frequency vibrations and powerful accelerations. These forces can compromise electrode integrity, increasing the risk of damage or delamination within the battery structure. As a result, a battery with better internal bonding can better withstand these mechanical stresses, preserving structural integrity and functionality during launch and early mission phases.
Leading Battery Chemistries in Aerospace Today
Among the battery chemistries currently leading aerospace innovation, lithium-ion remains dominant but is evolving. The most common variants include NMC, which balances energy density and safety, and LFP, prized for its excellent thermal stability and longer cycle life despite its lower energy density. Emerging battery technologies, such as solid-state batteries, promise to address many aerospace demands simultaneously. By replacing liquid electrolytes with solid counterparts, solid-state batteries offer enhanced safety by mitigating flammability risks and potentially boosting energy density compared to conventional lithium-ion. However, as of early 2025, solid-state batteries remain largely in the developmental phase, with challenges in scale-up and durability yet to be fully resolved.
The Path Forward with Addionics
As the demands of space and aerospace missions continue to grow more ambitious, the battery technologies powering them must evolve just as rapidly. Addionics’ 3D Current Collectors can provide this leap forward by offering enhanced ion and electron transport, greater conductivity, and the ability to support thicker electrodes without the structural compromises seen in traditional designs. Indeed, their porous structure strengthens adhesion between active materials and current collectors, creating a more robust bond that reduces the risk of mechanical failure under stress. This enhanced adhesion helps ensure battery reliability from lift-off through mission completion, while also simplifying manufacturing, lowering energy consumption, and supporting sustainability goals.
This drop-in solution is already being integrated into manufacturing lines by leading OEMs, offering a seamless upgrade path without disrupting existing operations. Compatible with all battery chemistries and use cases, Addionics’ technology supports the development of high-performance energy storage systems across sectors. By improving battery performance at the structural level, Addionics is helping the industry achieve longer mission lifespans, greater reliability, and a more efficient path to innovation, both on Earth and beyond.
Find out more about Addionics’ technology or contact us for collaboration opportunities.