insider brief
Rocket Lab has secured a $23.9 million award from the U.S. Department of Commerce to expand its semiconductor manufacturing capacity in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This funding, part of the CHIPS and Science Act, is intended to strengthen U.S. leadership in semiconductor production, particularly in applications critical to national security and the commercial space sector. Rocket Lab is one of only two U.S.-based companies capable of producing highly efficient, radiation-resistant solar cells needed for space exploration and defense.
Rocket Lab, a leading provider of space launch and systems solutions, announced it has been awarded 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 intended to strengthen U.S. leadership in semiconductor production, particularly in applications critical to national security and commercial space.
The Albuquerque facility focuses on manufacturing compound semiconductors used in space-grade solar cells and other optoelectronic components. These products play a critical role in powering satellites and systems operating in extreme environments, including interplanetary missions and national defense programs.
Brad Clevenger, Rocket Lab’s vice president of space systems, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion. “This investment will allow Rocket Lab to expand production, create skilled manufacturing jobs, and contribute to New Mexico’s economic development,” Clevenger said.
The facility has been in operation for more than 25 years, providing more than 4 megawatts of power to more than 1,100 satellites, including high-profile missions such as the James Webb Space Telescope and NASA’s Artemis mission. Rocket Lab is one of only two U.S.-based companies capable of producing highly efficient, radiation-resistant solar cells needed for space exploration and defense.
Image credit: Rocket Lab
