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In order to enhance the performance of its ambitious Starship rocket, SpaceX has reportedly signed a deal with South Korea’s LG Energy Solution to supply custom-made lithium-ion batteries. These new cylindrical batteries are expected to power key systems in the Starship rockets, which are allocated for future missions to Mars.
While exact details about the contract, including the size of the battery order and its financial value, remain undisclosed, sources suggest that this partnership marks a significant shift for SpaceX, which has traditionally developed and manufactured its own batteries for its spacecraft. It is likely that as the frequency of launches increases and the need for longer-lasting power systems grows, SpaceX is turning to LG Energy Solution for its expertise and advanced technology.
According to KED Global, the agreement will see LG’s cylindrical lithium-ion batteries used for both primary and backup power supplies in the Starship rockets, as well as energy storage systems. This move comes ahead of SpaceX’s planned Starship launches, which could begin as early as 2025, and underscores the growing reliance on commercial battery manufacturers to meet the power demands of cutting-edge space exploration.
LG Energy Solution, which has previously supplied batteries to SpaceX under one-off agreements, is now positioning itself as a key supplier for SpaceX’s next-generation missions. The company’s new cylindrical batteries—specifically designed for high-performance applications—offer impressive energy storage capacity and enhanced safety, making them ideal for space missions.
Interestingly, the deal with SpaceX also opens the door for LG’s batteries to potentially power other advanced projects led by Elon Musk, including humanoid robots under Tesla’s robotics division. Although this is purely theoretical for now, it highlights the growing role of LG’s next-gen batteries in both space and terrestrial applications.
SpaceX’s continued successes, including its recent milestone of using giant ‘chopsticks’ to catch the Starship’s Super Heavy booster, further demonstrate the company’s commitment to achieving rapid reusability in its space endeavors. As the Starship program moves forward, LG’s advanced battery technology will play a pivotal role in powering the rocket to new heights.
