Novac confirms first orbital use of supercapacitors on D-Orbit spacecraft

(SpaceEnergy) Italian energy-storage developer Novac has confirmed that its supercapacitors reached orbit aboard D-Orbit's ION Satellite Carrier in July, marking the company's first integration of its technology into a commercial spacecraft.

The Modena-based company disclosed the milestone through an announcement published by the Politecnico di Torino's I3P incubator on 19 October, followed by ESA Business Incubation Centre Turin on 20 October.

Novac's proprietary pouch-type supercapacitors were launched aboard SpaceX's Transporter-17 mission in July 2026 and integrated into the electrical architecture of D-Orbit's ION orbital transfer vehicle.

The devices are designed for applications requiring high power density, rapid electrical response, compact dimensions and reliable energy storage.

Novac develops customised supercapacitor cell chemistry, its proprietary Supercapacitor Management System and integrated energy-storage assemblies for aerospace and mobility applications.

The company said the orbital integration followed several years of research, development, testing and qualification.

Novac has also obtained EN 9100 aerospace quality-management certification, covering processes associated with product quality, traceability and reliability.

The company intends to expand manufacturing capacity and pursue further aerospace and industrial applications, with a Series A funding round targeted for early 2027.