Science
NASA tests solid-state batteries for future lunar cold
SPEARS prototypes worked at minus 80°C with reduced performance. Surviving colder storage conditions is different from operating at those temperatures.
By NewsCubby Editorial Desk · Published
NASA researchers are developing solid-state batteries for future lunar equipment, according to an October 14 report by Joe Atkinson at NASA Langley. The SPEARS project replaces a conventional liquid electrolyte with a solid material.
What the tests showed
Small prototype cells worked during thermal-vacuum tests down to minus 80°C, with reduced performance at that temperature. The cells also survived exposure to colder conditions, but NASA says they need warming before they can operate after extreme cold. Survival and operation are separate results.
The research is intended to support future tools, rovers and other lunar equipment. It does not establish that a flight-ready battery has been deployed on the Moon. Further technology development and preparation for spaceflight remain ahead.
Photograph and reporting
The social photograph shows Yi Lin holding a small prototype battery after testing at NASA Langley. Credit: NASA/Ryan Hill. The picture is used for factual editorial reporting under NASA’s media-use guidelines and cropped for the NewsCubby layout. It does not show a battery operating on the lunar surface or imply NASA endorsement.