Sierra Space expands partnerships to advance microgravity manufacturing

Sierra Space expands partnerships to advance microgravity manufacturing
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 05, 2024

Sierra Space, a leader in commercial space innovation and defense technology, announced two significant agreements aimed at advancing manufacturing in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). These collaborations highlight the growing role of microgravity in developing next-generation technologies.

The company has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with California-based Astral Materials and Space Forge Inc., a U.S. subsidiary of U.K.-based Space Forge Limited. These partnerships focus on the development of cutting-edge semiconductor technologies by leveraging space-based manufacturing.

Astral Materials specializes in using microgravity to grow ultra-high-quality semiconductor crystals, paving the way for advanced chip technologies. Meanwhile, Space Forge operates free-flying manufacturing facilities to create innovative materials for industries, national security, and research applications.

"These new agreements are a major step toward establishing a robust LEO economy that serves life on Earth," said Sierra Space CEO Tom Vice. "Harnessing the unique environment of microgravity is essential, and partnerships with experts in specific technological domains are key to achieving transformative solutions and shared goals."

The MOU with Astral Materials outlines collaborations involving Sierra Space's Dream Chaser spaceplane. Potential projects include payload logistics for orbital missions and integration of semiconductor manufacturing technologies. Astral Materials may also contribute to the design and operational aspects of Sierra Space's upcoming space station technology.

"Astral Materials manufactures materials that cannot be made on Earth," said Dr. Jessica Frick, CEO and Co-Founder of Astral Materials. "Microgravity provides a manufacturing capability unique to space, and partnering with Sierra Space enables us to focus on our expertise in crystal growth while relying on their leadership in space infrastructure."

Similarly, the agreement with Space Forge includes research and development as well as proof-of-concept missions related to semiconductor materials and other technologies. This collaboration will also involve input on the design and operation of Sierra Space's future space stations.

"Ensuring U.S. economic and national security through sustainable semiconductor research and manufacturing is a core part of our mission," said Michelle Flemming, President of Space Forge Inc. "Partnering with Sierra Space, a proven leader in space innovation, will help turn this vision into reality."