Sharp unveils flexible solar cells that can survive in space

With companies sticking out their thumbs to solar cell technology, Sharp recently unveiled their first solar cell that will survive a trip and a stay in space. These solar cells are flexible and can be twisted, folded and turned around corners when needed. This enables the solar cell to suitably cover the satellites and other outer space objects. This design by Sharp measures 20 microns in thickness. To create the prototype, Sharp clubbed together indium gallium crystals, gallium arsenide and indium gallium arsenide. Each of these was first grown on solid substrate molecules and was then added to the film. Sharp has developed a prototype of this solar cell and hopes to start manufacturing them by the year 2012. This may seem a far fetched plan, but when put to use, we will finally be able to reap the benefits of solar energy, right out of the heavens.
[Gizmodo]