The funding will be used to increase its compound semiconductor manufacturing capability and capacity at its Albuquerque, New Mexico facility. The semiconductors produced by Rocket Lab are used in space-grade solar cells and other optoelectronic products that are important components for national security and commercial applications.
Earlier this year, Rocket Lab announced the signing of a preliminary terms sheet for funding under the CHIPS and Science Act and this award underscores Rocket Lab’s pivotal role in US’s space industry’s supply chain.
The funding will enhance the company’s manufacturing capabilities enabling Rocket Lab to scale semiconductor production to meet rapidly growing demand. In particular, the space-grade solar cells produced by Rocket Lab power satellites that require high reliability and optimum performance in extreme environments.
“This award will help to ensure US leadership in compound semiconductor manufacturing capability while reinforcing Rocket Lab’s position as a leader in space-grade solar cell production,” said Brad Clevenger, Vice President of Rocket Lab Space Systems. “The investment will enable Rocket Lab to expand production, create highly skilled manufacturing jobs and generate economic and workforce development activity in New Mexico.”
Rocket Lab is one of only two companies in the United States that specialise in the production of highly efficient and radiation hardened space-grade solar cells.
The company’s solar cell facility has been a technology hub in Albuquerque for the past 25 years, employing more than 370 people that have delivered more than four megawatts of power to over 1,100 satellites in orbit.
Rocket Lab’s products enable critical space programs, including early missile warning and interplanetary science missions, the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA’s Artemis lunar explorations, the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter, and the Mars Insight Lander in addition to 100’s of commercial telecommunications satellites.
