COSMOS MAGAZINE
Researchers in Germany have successfully created glass from simulated Moon dust, showing its potential use in making solar panels to power future lunar habitats.
Simulation of solar cell fabrication on the Moon. Credit: Sercan Özen.
These “moonglass” solar cells, paired with efficient perovskite crystals, offer a lightweight and cost-effective alternative to current space-grade panels, potentially reducing launch mass by up to 99.4%.
Moon regolith simulant, moonglass, and moon solar cells. Credit: Felix Lang.
The cells are also more stable against radiation and can generate up to 100 times more energy per gram than traditional panels.
Credit: Getty
While challenges remain due to the Moon's harsh environment, the findings suggest moonglass could play a key role in sustaining lunar colonies.
Credit: NASA