British company Space Forge has launched a mini-factory into orbit to produce semiconductors in space. Thanks to the zero gravity and vacuum conditions, the materials are up to 4,000 times cleaner than those produced on Earth and can be used in 5G, electric vehicles, and aviation equipment.
It was reported by the BBC.
Space creates ideal conditions for the production of semiconductors: the material atoms form the most ordered three-dimensional structure, and the vacuum prevents the ingress of pollutants.
Veronica Vieira, head of cargo operations, showed a picture that the satellite sent from the furnace in space: it shows plasma gas heated to 1,000°C. She called it "one of the most exciting moments of my life."
Space Forge plans to create a larger plant capable of producing material for 10,000 chips. The Pridwen heat shield, named after King Arthur's legendary shield, will be used to return the semiconductors to Earth, protecting the vehicle during reentry.
Other companies are also considering the possibility of producing medicines, artificial tissues and other materials in space.
As a reminder, the American company Blue Origin has made a historic launch: for the first time, a person using a wheelchair has visited space.
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