Kulr to test COTS batteries in orbit
Kulr is to launch several versions of its Kulr ONE Space (K1S) commercial off the shelf (COTS) battery system into orbit for testing.
European launch integrator Exolaunch will handle the 6U SmallSat with multiple configuration of the K1S battery on a SpaceX rideshare mission scheduled for 2026.
The 6U SmallSat measures 10 cm x 20 cm x 30 cm and will carry 18650 format cells from LG, Samsung, Amprius, and Molicel. These have have been carefully selected to demonstrate cell and pack performance, as well as electronic functionality in orbit. The mission will also validate the flight capabilities of the K1S, the first commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) lithium-ion battery series engineered to fully comply with NASA’s JSC 20793 battery safety standard.
The Molicel 18650-M35A cells configuration has NASA Initial Lot Assessment (ILA), Lot Acceptance Testing (LAT), and WI-37A Cell Screening, previously referred to by Kulr as the Golden Lot. If feasible, a version of the K1S architecture will also include ultra-low-temperature performing cells capable of operating at -60°C without integrated heaters.
The mission will also test Kulr’s newly developed battery management system (BMS) architecture, which provides a COTS solution designed to meet the stringent safety requirements of the 20793 standards.
The K1S batteries are engineered with passive propagation resistance and flame-arresting technology, delivering safer and higher-performing systems at a fraction of the cost of traditional 20793-compliant batteries. This rideshare mission will provide additional flight heritage to the architectures developed by the Kulr team.
“The upcoming mission will serve as a platform to showcase the exceptional capabilities of Kulr’s cutting-edge battery solutions, reinforcing our position as a leader in advanced energy technologies for space and aerospace applications,” said Dr. William Walker, Chief Technology Officer, and Peter Hughes, Vice President of Engineering. “The mission aligns with Kulr’s ongoing efforts to revolutionize the space industry by offering reliable and high-performance energy solutions that meet the most stringent safety standards, all while reducing costs for customers.”
“We are excited to bring our Kulr One Space batteries to orbit on this rideshare mission,” said Michael Mo, CEO of Kulr Technology Group. “This mission underscores our commitment to providing safer, more efficient, and cost-effective battery solutions for the most demanding environments. With the integration of next-generation cells and our advanced BMS architecture, we are setting a new standard for COTS battery technology in space.”
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