Besxar Aims to Build an Orbital Semiconductor Factory Using SpaceX Rockets
Besxar is developing a semiconductor manufacturing process in orbit, leveraging the frequent return trips of SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket boosters. The startup aims to produce key precursors for advanced semiconductors by utilizing space's natural vacuum environment, which could reduce the need for costly clean rooms on Earth. Founded by former OpenAI employee Ashley Pilipiszyn, Besxar has raised nearly $14 million and recently completed its first two test flights with Starlink missions to validate their technology. The company’s initial tests successfully demonstrated that wafers exposed in space were cleaner than those produced terrestrially. Besxar plans to scale up over the next two years, eventually aiming for larger production units on SpaceX's upcoming Starship rocket. The venture faces challenges related to scaling and returning large volumes of product from orbit but believes advancements in affordable launch systems will enable growth. Besxar is part of a growing trend where companies seek space-based advantages for semiconductor manufacturing quality. However, the success of this approach depends heavily on continued improvements in reusable rocket technology by SpaceX or its competitors.
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Topics: rocket reusability semiconductor manufacturing space-based production startups