Space Forge, a pioneering aerospace start-up, has just completed something incredible. Their ability to launch a microwave-sized factory into orbit will be remembered as a major milestone in the establishment of in-space manufacturing. This past summer, the portable, high-tech mini-factory was successfully delivered into orbit aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. It has already demonstrated its potential by firing up its furnace reaching extraordinary temperatures of 1,000 degrees Celsius.
Space Forge’s new orbital factory performing the most important task of producing semiconductor materials. Without access to these semiconductors, life on Earth would be dramatically different. They keep the world running, enabling electronics in communications, computing and transportation.
The mini-factory’s operations are being monitored from Space Forge’s mission control located in Cardiff. Veronica Viera, the company’s payload operations lead, expressed the thrill of witnessing the furnace’s operation.
“Seeing images of glowing plasma from space was amazing. It was one of the most exciting moments of my life,” – Veronica Viera.
The successful activation of the furnace is a vital step for Space Forge, as Viera noted that the glowing plasma represents “one of the core ingredients that we need for our in-space manufacturing process.” This innovation not only demonstrates the promise of manufacturing in the microgravity environment, but paves the way for other future endeavors.
Josh has a simple dream. Next, he wants to build a commercial-sized space factory that will manufacture semiconductor materials for as many as 10,000 chips. He went on to explain what makes these semiconductors so important, mentioning their diverse applications.
“This sort of semiconductor would go on to be in the 5G tower in which you get your mobile phone signal, it’s going to be in the car charger you plug an EV into, it’s going to be in the latest planes,” – Josh Western.
The most important tests are still ahead of the company. Space Forge still needs to ensure that whatever materials it produces can be safely returned to Earth for their intended application. The satellite launched with the mini-factory has already begun beaming back images from space, showcasing its operational success.
Libby Jackson, head of space at the Science Museum, emphasized the broader implications of this achievement, stating, “In-space manufacturing is something that is happening now.” Her statements point toward an increasing realization that innovations created through space technologies have the potential to revolutionize Earth industries.