A new agreement between Space Forge and United Semiconductors LLC will aim to manufacture advanced semiconductors in space for future quantum computers and electronic devices.
How we got here: The two companies began talks about a year ago to put their tech together and make in-orbit manufacturing a reality. Space Forge, based in Cardiff, Wales, launched its first satellite this year, aiming to test advanced material deposition processes in space.
The satellite will later test new reentry technologies, such as an advanced heat shield. Space Forge’s prototype Pridwen shield is meant to be reusable and foldable to safely ferry experiments back to Earth.
The collaboration with CA-based United Semiconductors, a specialist in crystal growth processes, is intended to help Space Forge design specialized equipment and explore new pathways for in-space manufacturing..
“We’re creating a powerful collaboration that can demonstrate the commercial viability of space-based semiconductor production,” Space Forge President Michelle Flemming said in the statement.
What’s next: There’s no timeline for when the first payloads or experiments could be launched, but the companies will develop a plan in the coming months to demonstrate the business case for commercial semiconductor production in orbit, according to the press release.
