NASA picks Taunton firm for solar cells

Kopin Corp.said it has been awarded a $600,000 contract from NASA to participate in a solar-cell development program for future space exploration missions.

The Taunton company produces ultra-small liquid crystal displays that are used in everything from digital cameras to thermal weapon sights and night vision systems.

As part of a team, Kopin will work on a NASA program that seeks to develop a type of high-efficiency solar cells that are resistant to extreme conditions.

According to Kopin, the technology that the program looks to develop "will enable photovoltaic power systems of future NASA space exploration missions to operate in extreme environments with high temperatures and radiation exposure."
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)