Rocket Lab releases germanium-free IMM Apex solar cell

Rocket Lab said on September 8, 2026 that it has put Inverted Metamorphic IMM Apex space solar cells into production. The germanium-free cell is rated at 31.5% beginning-of-life efficiency and 40% lower cell mass than heritage germanium cells, is a drop-in replacement, and is available now in multi-100 kW volumes. Rocket Lab said the IMM line powered NASA's Ingenuity Mars Helicopter and more than 1,100 satellites on orbit.