SpaceX Launches Reusable Fabships for Chip Manufacturing in Orbit

SpaceX is set to launch reusable 'fabships' designed for chip manufacturing in space, marking a significant innovation in the semiconductor industry. The Washington D.C.-based startup, Besxar, has secured a 12-launch deal with SpaceX to conduct experiments focused on manufacturing semiconductors in the unique environment of space.

According to Tom's Hardware, these prototype manufacturing pods, named 'Fabships,' are designed to hitch rides on Falcon 9 rockets starting late this year. Each launch will carry two microwave-sized units that will remain attached during flight, spending a few minutes exposed to near-space vacuum before returning to Earth with the booster, all in less than ten minutes.

This initiative is being described as the world's first orbital semiconductor foundry. Besxar CEO Ashley Pilipiszyn articulated that this approach is a pragmatic response to the limitations faced by terrestrial chipmaking, as AI data centers currently struggle with power and cooling constraints.

She emphasized that Earth's clean rooms are not as pristine as the ultra-high vacuum conditions found in space, ultimately resulting in poorer yields in chip production. Instead of investing billions to create similar conditions on Earth, Besxar aims to utilize space itself as a clean room for manufacturing.

However, it's important to note that this endeavor is still experimental in nature. The initial launches, referred to as 'Clipper-class' Fabships, will primarily test whether delicate wafers can withstand the rigors of launch, exposure, and reentry without damage.

Pilipiszyn humorously likened this effort to 'the ultimate egg drop challenge,' a reference to a school science project where students protect an egg from breaking during a fall. As the program unfolds, Besxar anticipates generating valuable data to inform larger, more sustained efforts in orbital manufacturing.

While these experiments are expected to continue through next year, the first commercially viable 'Made in Space' chips are not anticipated before 2030 or later. Despite the challenges, if Besxar's project succeeds, it could redefine the economics surrounding chip purity and supply chain resilience, attracting significant investment interest, including early support from NVIDIA's Inception program and a Department of Defense contract.

This venture exemplifies the potential to expand the frontiers of where and how critical technology is manufactured, positioning space as a viable alternative to traditional fabrication processes.