Short Takes – 4-10-24

First entirely roll-to-roll system points way to cheap printed perovskite solar cells. ChemistryWorld.com article. Pull quote: “‘The roll-to-roll printed perovskite cells exhibit efficiencies of up to 15.5% for small-area [devices] and 11% for large-area modules,’ says Bruno. Both figures improve the previous efficiency record for roll-to-roll perovskites of 10.8%. With these parameters, the predicted cost could come in at 70 cents (55p) per watt. ‘While [still] more expensive than silicon, the roll-to-roll breakthrough signifies a significant step toward cost reduction,’ she adds. Moreover, easier production processes could cut carbon dioxide emissions, especially as the roll-to-roll printing works at room temperature.”

Federal Acquisition Regulation: FAR Part 40, Information Security and Supply Chain Security; Request for Information. Federal Register FAR request for information. Summary: “DoD, GSA, and NASA recently established Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) part 40, Information Security and Supply Chain Security. The intent of this RFI is to solicit feedback from the general public on the scope and organization of FAR part 40.” Comment deadline: June 10^th, 2024.

SpaceX to Light Up Starlink on Upcoming Private Space Station. PCMag.com article. Pull quote: “US aerospace company Vast announced today that it will bring Starlink to Haven-1, a low-Earth orbiting private space station slated to launch in 2025.”

After a fiery finale, the Delta rocket family now belongs to history. ArsTechnica.com article. Pull quote: “The Delta IV Heavy, one of the world's most powerful rockets, launched for the 16th and final time Tuesday. It was the 45th and last flight of a Delta IV launcher and the final rocket named Delta to ever launch, ending a string of 389 missions dating back to 1960.”