Space Forge, Voyager sign MoU for in-space manufacturing

Space Forge has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Voyager Space to support in-space research and manufacturing.

The Cardiff-headquartered startup is looking to develop its ForgeStar returnable satellite platform that supports the use of micro-gravity experiments and manufacturing capabilities. Satellites based on the platform are designed for reuse after conducting operations in space for between one and six months.

The Welsh company has already been backed by the ESA as part of its Boost! Programme. And NATO also recently backed it through the Nato Innovation Fund.

For its part, Colorado-based Voyager Space – a space transport specialist – is working on commercial space station infrastructure, funded by NASA.

Specifically, under the MoU, the companies will explore integrating ForgeStar with Voyager’s existing orbital capabilities. They’ll also work together on funding applications for commercial customers.

“This collaboration is a game-changer for commercial space,” said Michelle Flemming, President of Space Forge. “Combining Space Forge’s cutting-edge ForgeStar technology with Voyager’s expertise in commercial space station infrastructure and services creates an unique opportunity to deliver impactful, sustainable solutions. We’re excited to pave the way for the next generation of space-made materials, with the potential to reshape industries from biomedical to energy on Earth.”

Basically, the company looks to leverage novel manufacturing techniques based on the extreme conditions of space. For example, semiconductor materials and bio-medical research are among possible contenders for ForgeStar.

“Voyager’s goal is to advance the capabilities of commercial space exploration, and these plans with Space Forge mark a significant step toward achieving this,” said Frank Morgan, Chief Operating Officer and interim President of Exploration at Voyager Space. “This work will allow us to explore new frontiers in bio-medicine and material science, unlocking the potential of space to deliver groundbreaking solutions not possible on Earth.”

In-space manufacturing is a market that has been projected to reach $21.8 billion by 2032, growing at an annual rate of 20%.

The long-established Voyager has managed 2,000 successful customer missions, the company highlights.

Image: SpaceForge