The SOLSTICE program aims to develop novel solar-powered and hybrid solar-powered systems with significantly higher power density than existing technologies. These systems will be capable of maintaining performance over their mission lifetime in challenging remote applications, including in an earth-orbital environment (Track 1) and on the earth surface (Track 2). Novel component technologies and systems-level approaches will be leveraged to both maximize power output over a large range of operational conditions and mitigate anticipated failure modes. This will lead to a significant increase in the total energy yield of a power system over its intended lifetime and greater resilience against ever-present risks. IARPA seeks technical approaches that improve and look beyond individual component performance to consider the systems-level challenges and opportunities to enhance useable energy and minimize loss. Careful consideration of the intersection of novel and established component technologies, including photovoltaics, optics, thermal management/conversion, power electronics, energy storage, and other technical areas will be needed. The program will initially focus on component technology development as part of a system concept design, followed by system prototype development, testing, and refinement for target environments.
PROPOSERS' DAY INFORMATION
SOLSTICE Proposers' Day Registration Site