Space Station Battery Storage

Are lithium ion batteries good for space missions?

In recent decades, lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have become the preferred choice for powering space missions, replacing older nickel-based and silver-zinc battery chemistries. Their high energy density, long cycle life, and superior weight-to-power ratio make them ideal for space applications.

When did NASA use lithium-ion batteries?

NASA first used nickel-hydrogen batteries in 1990 for the Hubble Space Telescope — the technology’s debut in low-Earth orbit on a major project. It was the primary power system for the International Space Station for more than 18 years before eventually being replaced by lithium-ion batteries.

Should lithium-sulfur batteries be tested on the International Space Station?

Dan Cook, Lyten’s co-founder and CEO, emphasized the importance of this opportunity, saying, "The process for inclusion of batteries for testing on the International Space Station is a highly competitive one and a necessary step to enable broad adoption of lithium-sulfur for space applications."

Which spacecraft uses lithium-ion batteries?

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) uses lithium-ion batteries to store energy during orbital maneuvers. The Osiris-Rex spacecraft, which collected samples from asteroid Bennu, used lithium-ion batteries to power critical instruments.