Ascent Solar Technologies, also known as AST, was founded in 2005 by ITN Energy Systems. Ascent Solar Technologies manufactures thin-film, monolithically integrated Copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) flexible photovoltaic modules. It utilizes proprietary intelligent processing and sensor-based controls to offer roll-to-roll production equipment. The company s products can be directly integrated into standard building materials, space applications and consumer electronics for portable power supply. Since 1994, ITN Energy Systems, parent company for Ascent Solar Technologies, has performed more than 35 contracts that involved photovoltaic technologies for private and government entities. It holds sponsorships from U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, National Science Foundation, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Missile Defense Agency and NASA.