Key Findings
NASA announced on October 14, 2026, that a small prototype cell developed under the SPEARS project successfully operated at temperatures as low as -80°C. While performance slightly decreased at this extreme, the cell remained functional. Furthermore, the battery showed no damage after being exposed to a temperature range between 100°C and -170°C.
Technical Details
The SPEARS battery replaces the liquid electrolytes found in standard lithium-ion batteries—which are prone to freezing at lunar night temperatures or evaporating in a vacuum—with solid materials based on ceramics or polymers. Testing was conducted by the Langley Research Center using “thermal vacuum tests” on coin-shaped prototype cells. The results showed the cells operated within a range of 80°C to -60°C, with continued (though reduced) operation at -80°C.
Although the battery does not function at -170°C, the solid electrolyte prevents the permanent damage associated with freezing. NASA notes that the battery only requires a small heater to reach operating temperature before use, rather than requiring constant heating.
Background & Context
The project is led by Donald Dornbusch at the Glenn Research Center, with Yi Lin leading the testing phase. SPEARS began in 2026 with funding from NASA’s Research and Technology Mission Directorate, evolving from previous research on batteries for aircraft. Additionally, the Ames Research Center is developing the electronic equipment and substrates necessary to test these batteries in space.
Significance & Outlook
This technology is intended for use in lunar south pole exploration, where night temperatures can drop to -200°C. Targeted applications include:
- Small tools, such as drills, for use in shadowed craters.
- Lunar rovers.
- Emergency power sources for astronauts.
According to Lin, the battery’s energy capacity, output, and durability can be adjusted by changing the electrode materials. NASA intends to focus on technical development in the initial stage before potentially collaborating with private companies.
Source: https://fabscene.com/new/news/nasa-spears-solid-state-battery-minus-80c/
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