American startup Atomic-6 received $2 million from the US Space Force to develop complex Light Wing solar panels capable of quickly folding and unfolding during flight. Funding has been allocated under the Tactical Funding Increase (TACFI) program, which combines SBIR funds with private capital to accelerate the adoption of multifunctional technologies.
Light Wing is based on patented “space mast” and “space hinge” composite joints that repeatedly fold and unfold arrays, helping the satellite adapt to different phases of the mission. The first tests and qualification are planned to be conducted over the next 21 months. The Atomic-6 board includes astronaut Chris Hadfield and Sierra Space COO Jeff Babione, demonstrating the industry’s interest in the technology.
The main advantage of Light Wing is the ability to “hide” the panels when the vehicle approaches another object or debris, and then immediately return them to their working position after the danger has been eliminated. In orbits increasingly congested with space satellites and debris, this feature can reduce the risk of collisions and extend the service life of satellites. Atomic-6 had previously received $3.8 million to develop Space Armor plates for protection against micrometeorites and radio interference. According to ESA estimates, only in 2024, fragmentation in orbit led to several major collisions, which significantly increased the amount of debris and the threat to spacecraft.
Mobile and compact arrays will enable satellites to maneuver safely near telescopes or dock with them for maintenance, as well as fly in close formation to create interferometric “super mirrors.” This paves the way for greater flexibility in scientific missions, longer operational lifetimes for space observatories, and more accurate studies of distant objects — from gravitational wave observations to exoplanet mapping.
According to the product specifications on the official website, Light Wing has the following technical features: the array produces up to 200 W/kg of specific power, which is 5–10% higher than traditional composites thanks to its own Atomic-6 process. The Space Mast support truss with a double omega profile unfolds from the root, minimizing cantilever mass and reducing the modal frequency of the panels. The solar sections are connected by Space Hinge joints based on shape memory alloys, which ensure precise alignment when folding and unfolding. Light Sheet flexible panels are compatible with any elements and allow for roll or Z-folding, while the tensioning system together with Space Mast ensures high rigidity with minimal array weight.
If the ability to fold and protect Light Wing panels is the first step toward safer orbits, then the next logical step is to actively “clean up” existing debris. Learn about the modern technologies—from electrodynamic tethers to robotic grapplers—that engineers are developing today to clean up near-Earth space and keep it suitable for scientific and commercial missions. Read more in the article “Orbital cleaning: modern technologies against debris in space.”
