Space Forge raises $30M Series A to make chip materials in space
a year ago
- #space-tech
- #innovation
- #semiconductors
- Demand for semiconductors is increasing, but silicon is reaching its limits.
- Space Forge, a UK startup, raised £22.6M to develop wafer materials in space due to unique conditions like microgravity.
- Space-made crystals have fewer defects, improving efficiency in devices like 5G towers and quantum computing.
- NATO Innovation Fund and Northrop Grumman are key partners, highlighting dual-use potential in defense and tech.
- Space Forge relies on existing space providers for launches, focusing on return technology like 'Mary Poppins from space'.
- The company is expanding in Europe, opening an office in Portugal for satellite return infrastructure.
- Geopolitical concerns over semiconductor reliance on Taiwan are driving interest in resilient, homegrown supply chains.
- Space Forge aims to be carbon-negative, though emissions savings are unproven at scale.
- The company's first mission failed due to a Virgin Orbit rocket anomaly; ForgeStar-1 is set to launch later this year.