The new technology hinges on the use of photo-electric converters made of porous nanocrystal silicon.

      "New solar batteries will be no less efficient than their modern analogs surface-supported with germanium and will cost five times less", - the press service of the Samara State Space University reports.

      The efficiency of such converters, according to laboratory researches can reach 30 percent and above. In the spring of this year prototypes of the Samara photo-electric converters will be tested in the conditions of the outer space. It will be carried out onboard the Aist-2D Satellite, which is planned to be put into the orbit as part of the first launch project from the Vostochny spaceport.