York Space Systems has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Solestial as the company continues a broader strategy to strengthen control over key spacecraft technologies and supply chains.
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The acquisition marks York’s third announced deal this year following its planned $355 million acquisition of satellite terminal manufacturer All.Space in April and its March purchase of electric propulsion company Orbion Space Technology for approximately $74.9 million.
York said the acquisitions are intended to improve vertical integration while positioning the company for growth in commercial and defense space markets.
Based in Arizona, Solestial develops ultra-thin radiation-hardened silicon solar cells designed for space applications.
According to York, approximately 95% of Solestial’s supply chain is sourced within the United States.
Demand for space-grade solar cells has increased significantly in recent years as satellite deployments continue to rise globally, creating supply chain pressures and extended lead times for critical components.
York said integrating Solestial’s technology could help reduce supply chain risks while lowering costs for more advanced satellite systems.
Margo de Naray, chief executive of Solestial, said the company was founded to address limitations in space-based power supply manufacturing.
“Solestial was founded to solve the space power bottleneck,” de Naray said.
“Our customers need a solution that can scale, perform in space, and be manufactured reliably,” she added.
The companies expect the transaction to close during the second quarter.
Under the agreement, Solestial will continue operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of York Space Systems.
York said it plans to integrate selected technologies and subsystems from the acquired businesses to develop more capable and cost-efficient satellites.
The latest deal reflects increasing consolidation within the space industry as satellite manufacturers seek greater control over critical technologies amid rising demand for commercial and defense spacecraft.
