In today’s Australian Space Summit & Exhibition 2026 episode of the Space Connect podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Paul Mooney, founder and CEO of Australian solar technology company Halocell Energy.

The pair discuss development of advanced perovskite solar technology designed for space applications, drones, and high-altitude platforms.

They also explore potential for lightweight, flexible solar cells to provide a lower-cost alternative to traditional space-grade solar technology, while reducing supply chain risks associated with critical minerals.

The podcast conversation includes the following topics:

• The rise of perovskite solar technology and why it is being viewed as a potential game changer for space and aerospace applications.
• Challenges facing the global space-grade solar market, including critical mineral shortages, long lead times, and supply chain vulnerabilities.
• How Australian companies can commercialise locally developed research and strengthen sovereign manufacturing capability.
• The growing demand for lightweight, flexible solar cells across satellites, drones, high-altitude platforms, and future space missions.
• Emerging concepts in space-based solar power, energy transfer, and the future of orbital infrastructure.
• The importance of sovereign space manufacturing as part of Australia’s broader critical infrastructure and national resilience strategy.
• Opportunities for Australia to build advanced manufacturing capability through automation, innovation, and next-generation energy technologies.
• The role of solar technology in extending the endurance of electric drones and supporting future defence and aerospace applications.

Finally, the discussion wraps up by exploring the need for Australia to move beyond resource extraction and develop higher-value manufacturing capability that can support both the domestic space sector and international export markets.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Space Connect team

Listen to the episode on this webpage, below, or click here to listen on your device.

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