GS Yuasa Lithium-ion cells have been delivered to the International Space Station for the fourth time. The transfer marks the successful completion of battery deliveries to support a project to upgrade the spacecraft’s battery system.

Since the initial delivery in December 2016, GS Yuasa have supplied 24 of their state-of-the-art Li-ion cells to the space station, replacing the older nickel-metal hydride cells previously used.

Due to the high energy density for their mass, just 24 of GS Yuasa’s Li-ion cells are needed to replace 48 of the NiMH batteries previously used. The new batteries will be replaced by astronauts during space walks outside the space station over the coming months.

The Li-ion cells were transported on board a H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) which basted off from Tanegashima Space Centre in May. The rocket and craft are specifically designed and operated by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency to resupply the International Space Station. GS Yuasa batteries are also used in this HTV.

The battery manufacturer was chosen to supply the ISS which is the largest artificial object in space, in 2012. GS Yuasa also supply a range of other satellites with cells and recently became the first manufacturer to exceed four million Watt-hours of energy storage in orbit.

James Hylton, Managing Director of GS Yuasa Battery Sales UK Ltd said, “As battery technology has developed, we’re proud to have remained at the very forefront of the industry, something that is reinforced in the applications in which GS Yuasa batteries are used, including the ISS.