The companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to target applications such as quantum Computing, power electronics and sensors.
The plan is to work together over the coming months to develop specific project frameworks with strategic long-term customers.
ForgeStar
Specifically, Space Forge will develop advanced materials deposition processes and equipment. This will be compatible with its ForgeStar platform. United Semiconductors will contribute its crystal growth processes and design specialised equipment for in-space manufacturing environments.
The latter will also, it says, identify potential materials suitable for space-based production and perform comprehensive wafer processing and testing.
According to the companies, the agreement formalises collaborative efforts that started over a year ago.
Crystal growth
Space Forge is an advanced materials startup focusing on semiconductor manufacturing in space. For its part, United Semiconductors LLC specialises in bulk crystal growth of III-V semiconductor compounds and and wafer processing.
“This partnership marks an exciting evolution in our mission to establish a robust US semiconductor manufacturing footprint that onshores reliable and resilient supply chains here at home,” said Michelle Flemming, President of Space Forge US, right.
“By combining our terrestrial and microgravity manufacturing capabilities with United Semiconductors’ deep expertise in crystal growth and wafer processing, we’re creating a powerful collaboration that can demonstrate the commercial viability of space-based semiconductor production.”
Space microelectronics
United Semiconductors highlighted the technical expertise needed development of semiconductor materials manufacturing in space. And also, the potential for commercialisation for space microelectronics.
“A robust commercial space economy in low-Earth orbit (LEO) will stimulate sustainable non-NASA utilization of future commercial LEO destinations (CLDs) and orbital platforms, assisting the US domestic industry to gain and/or maintain leadership in many critical technology sectors,” said Dr. Geeta Rajagopalan, President and CEO of United Semiconductors.
Space Forge
With UK headquarters in Cardiff, Space Forge also has an international presence in Florida and the Azores.
Image: Space Forge
See also: New Space gallery at Science Museum
