Tech Talk

October 2006

15-Year Battery Sought for Civilian, Military Satellites

Edited by Robert H. Williams

Production of a relatively lightweight battery with an operating life of 15 years in space is the goal of Yardney Technical Products Inc. of Pawcatuck, Conn., and its subsidiary, Lithion Inc.

These companies are working on modifications to lithium-ion batteries that include cutting edge monitoring and equalization systems that particularly would be applicable to satellites that are being developed for space-based ballistic missile defense.

Officials, however, point out that improved lithium-ion batteries have application in cell phone towers, autos, emergency equipment and uninterruptible power systems.