News

NASA Selects Saft America To Develop Next-Generation Lithium-ion Technology

June 14, 2009 by Jeff Shepard

Saft announced that it has been awarded a multi-million dollar contract to develop the next-generation lithium-ion (Li-ion) technology for NASA. After a competitive review, Saft states that it was selected for its expertise in electrochemistry and its ability to take products developed in the research lab to large-scale manufacturing.

In order to launch and operate rovers, landers, astronaut packs, and other space applications on the moon, the new technology must offer very high specific energy. Saft is developing an advanced lithium-ion cell that will enable NASA to significantly reduce the weight of its next-generation missions.

"This contract further solidifies Saft’s reputation as an industry leader with a proven track record of developing and delivering unprecedented technologies for the space market," said Thomas Alcide, General Manager of Saft’s Specialty Battery Group. "This Li-ion solution will provide advanced capabilities necessary for NASA to support future missions."