| Abstract Scope |
Space is no longer just a destination for exploration; it is emerging as a future manufacturing platform. The unique conditions of microgravity, high vacuum, and extreme thermal conditions allow the manufacture of advanced semiconductor materials with significantly improved properties compared to those made terrestrially. These extremely low defectivity semiconductor materials will enable the next-generation of RF, power electronics, and quantum devices for defense, aerospace, and other critical sectors. This presentation will discuss some of the scientific foundations, technological and economic challenges, and emerging opportunities associated with manufacturing semiconductor materials in space.
Additionally, the presentation will share some information about Space Forge, our recent demonstration of the commercial, free-flying platform FS-1 with a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) tool, and our path to commercializing semiconductor manufacturing in space. |