Insider Brief
- Rocket Lab has secured a $23.9 million award from the U.S. Department of Commerce to expand its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- This funding, part of the CHIPS and Science Act, is aimed at bolstering U.S. leadership in semiconductor production, especially for applications critical to national security and the commercial space sector.
- Rocket Lab stands as one of only two U.S.-based companies capable of producing the high-efficiency, radiation-hardened solar cells needed for space exploration and defense.
Rocket Lab, a leading provider of space launch and systems solutions, announced it has secured a $23.9 million award from the U.S. Department of Commerce to expand its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This funding, part of the CHIPS and Science Act, is aimed at bolstering U.S. leadership in semiconductor production, especially for applications critical to national security and the commercial space sector.
The Albuquerque facility focuses on producing compound semiconductors used in space-grade solar cells and other optoelectronic components. These products play a key role in powering satellites and systems operating in extreme environments, including interplanetary missions and national defense programs.
Rocket Lab Vice President of Space Systems Brad Clevenger highlighted the strategic importance of this expansion. “This investment allows Rocket Lab to scale production, create skilled manufacturing jobs, and contribute to economic development in New Mexico,” Clevenger said.
The facility has been operational for over 25 years, delivering more than four megawatts of power to over 1,100 satellites, including high-profile missions like the James Webb Space Telescope and NASA’s Artemis program. Rocket Lab stands as one of only two U.S.-based companies capable of producing the high-efficiency, radiation-hardened solar cells needed for space exploration and defense.
Image credit: Rocket Lab
