KULR Technology Group, Inc., experts in advanced energy management solutions for space, aerospace, and defense, has announced plans to launch its KULR ONE Space (K1S) battery on a SpaceX rideshare mission scheduled for 2026. The mission, facilitated via launch integrator Exolaunch, is a significant milestone in KULR’s development of safer, high-performing battery systems for the rapidly growing space battery market, which is projected to expand from $3.9 billion in 2023 to $6.35 billion by 2030 (source: Virtue Market Research).
Demonstrating Advanced Space Battery Technology
As part of the planned mission, multiple configurations of KULAR’s K1S batteries will be integrated into a 6U SmallSat, and evaluated for cell and pack performance, as well as electronic functionality in orbital environments. This mission will also validate the flight capabilities of the K1S, the first commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) lithium-ion battery series engineered to fully comply with NASA’s JSC 20793 battery safety standard.
The 6U SmallSat is a compact satellite, occupying a small footprint measuring just measures just 10 cm x 20 cm x 30 cm. Its standardized structure is constructed from durable materials such as aluminum or carbon-fiber composites to withstand the extreme environmental conditions of space. Key highlights of the planned K1S rideshare mission include:
- Integration of top-tier cells: The K1S battery model variations will feature 18650 cells from leading manufacturers, including LG, Samsung, Amprius, and MOLICEL.
- Utilization of cells strategically selected by NASA: One configuration will utilize MOLICEL 18650-M35A cells, with associated NASA Initial Lot Assessment (ILA), Lot Acceptance Testing (LAT), and WI-37A Cell Screening, previously referred to by KULR as the “Golden Lot.”
- Low-temperature cell technology: A version of the K1S may incorporate ultra-low-temperature cells capable of operating at -60°C without integrated heaters.
- Advanced battery management system (BMS): The K1S will showcase KULR’s proprietary BMS architecture, offering a COTS energy management solution that has been expressly designed to meet the stringent requirements of of the NASA JSC 20793 battery safety standard.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤ - Gaining flight heritage for commercialized variations of safe battery architectures: The K1S batteries are engineered with passive propagation resistance and flame-arresting technology, delivering safer and higher-performing systems at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional 20793-compliant batteries. This rideshare mission will provide additional flight heritage to the architectures developed by KULR.
Setting a New Standard for Space Battery Systems
Dr. William Walker, KULR Chief Technology Officer, and Peter Hughes, KULR Vice President of Engineering, jointly stated, “the upcoming mission will serve as a platform to showcase the exceptional capabilities of KULR’s cutting-edge battery solutions, reinforcing the Company’s position as a leader in advanced energy technologies for space and aerospace applications. The mission aligns with KULR’s ongoing efforts to revolutionize the space industry by offering reliable and high-performance energy solutions that meet the most stringent safety standards, all while reducing costs for customers.”
Commitment to COTS Space Battery Technology Innovation
“We are excited to bring our KULR ONE Space batteries to orbit on this rideshare mission,” said Michael Mo, CEO of KULR Technology Group. “This mission underscores our commitment to providing safer, more efficient, and cost-effective battery solutions for the most demanding environments. With the integration of next-generation cells and our advanced BMS architecture, we are setting a new standard for COTS battery technology in space.”
About KULR Technology Group Inc.
KULR Technology Group Inc. (NYSE American: KULR) delivers advanced energy storage solutions for space, aerospace, and defense by leveraging a foundation of in-house battery design expertise, comprehensive cell and battery testing suite, and battery fabrication and production capabilities. The Company’s holistic offering allows delivery of commercial-off-the-shelf and custom next generation energy storage systems in rapid timelines for a fraction of the cost compared to traditional programs.
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Source/Photo Credit: KULR Technology Group, Inc.
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