Space Forge and United Semiconductors announce partnership
Space Forge, a UK materials company that aims make semiconductors in space, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with United Semiconductors, a US specialist in bulk crystal growth of III-V semiconductor compounds.
The agreement formalises ongoing collaborative efforts that started over a year ago to develop next-gen semiconductor applications and establish clear routes to market for space-manufactured materials.
Under the MoU framework, Space Forge will design and develop advanced materials deposition processes and equipment, integrate manufacturing systems compatible with its ForgeStar platform.
United Semiconductors will contribute its proven crystal growth processes, design specialised equipment and accessories for in-space manufacturing environments, identify potential materials suitable for space-based production and perform comprehensive wafer processing and testing.
Michelle Flemming, president, Space Forge said: "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. 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. This partnership strengthens our commitment to advancing U.S. leadership in advanced materials and in-space manufacturing."
Geeta Rajagopalan, president and CEO, United Semiconductors said: “This partnership brings together key technical expertise that is essential for the rapid development of semiconductor materials manufacturing in space and its potential for commercialisation for next generation terrestrial and space microelectronics. A robust commercial space economy in low-Earth orbit (LEO) will stimulate sustainable non-NASA utilisation 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.”
The collaboration reflects the growing momentum in commercial space manufacturing and addresses the increasing demand for ultra-high quality semiconductor substrates for next-generation applications in quantum computing, telecommunications and advanced electronics.
By establishing clear development pathways and market applications, the Space Forge-United Semiconductors partnership aims to demonstrate the economic viability of space-based semiconductor production at commercial scale.
The companies plan to work together over the coming months to develop specific project frameworks with strategic long-term customers.
