BrightSpot’s PLus-Spot™ large-area photoluminescence (PL) imaging system has been selected as a Finalist for the 2026 R&D 100 Awards, one of the world’s most respected programs recognizing innovative technologies with the potential to make a significant impact across science and industry.
The recognition highlights PLus-Spot’s innovative approach to photoluminescence imaging and analysis, providing researchers and manufacturers with advanced capabilities for evaluating photovoltaic materials and devices. The system is designed to help users identify and quantify defects, material variations, and other characteristics that influence the performance, efficiency, and reliability of solar cells and advanced semiconductor materials.
The initial development of PLus-Spot was conducted in coordination with the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI). This collaboration helped advance the technology from early-stage research into a practical, commercially available solution for photoluminescence imaging and analysis.
“Being selected as an R&D 100 Finalist is an outstanding honor and validates the innovation behind PLus-Spot,” said Andre Gabor, President & CTO. “Our mission has always been to provide researchers and manufacturers with practical, high-performance tools that make advanced PV metrology systems faster, more accurate, and more accessible. We are grateful to the R&D 100 judges for recognizing the innovation and dedication of our engineering team.”
PLus-Spot is part of BrightSpot Automation’s growing portfolio of solar cell and panel metrology solutions. The platform combines high-resolution imaging, quantitative image analysis, and intuitive software to help researchers and manufacturers gain deeper insight into material quality and device performance.
Applications for PLus-Spot include photovoltaic research and manufacturing, solar cell and module development, semiconductor characterization, advanced materials research, and production quality assurance – for both terrestrial and space solar applications.
The R&D 100 Awards, presented annually by R&D World, recognize the year’s most significant new technologies and products from industry, academia, and government laboratories. Selection as a finalist reflects the technology’s technical innovation, uniqueness, practical value, and commercial potential.
PLus-Spot is available today for research and industrial applications. Read more about PLus-spot here
