A Hub Emerges
The Capital Region is witnessing a significant rise in its microelectronics sector, rapidly evolving into a prominent hub, particularly for space-related
applications. According to the Center for Economic Growth (CEG), this region is gaining recognition as a critical resource, specifically for supplying radiation-hardened semiconductor chips that are essential for deep space missions and satellites. This surge in activity is backed by strong collaboration among various entities, including GlobalFoundries in Malta, IBM in Albany, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, and GE Aerospace at its research campus in Niskayuna. GlobalFoundries is making substantial progress, especially in the satellite sector, with revenue in this area having been virtually non-existent in 2024 but expected to contribute about $100 million in revenue in 2025.
GlobalFoundries' Role
GlobalFoundries, based in Malta, is playing a pivotal role in this transformation. The company is experiencing major revenue gains in the space industry, driven by the increasing demand for advanced chips from companies that need sophisticated components, as indicated by James Schlett, director of research and communications at CEG. A key milestone occurred in 2022 when the Department of Defense provided GlobalFoundries with $117 million to relocate its 45-nanometer silicon-on-insulator chips from its East Fishkill factory to Malta, securing government access to radiation-hardened chips. In collaboration with BAE Systems, GlobalFoundries is set to manufacture new, space-hardened chips for the British aerospace company, a partnership that shows the value the company creates using its commercial semiconductor platforms to develop new, highly differentiated chips for use in sensitive aerospace and defense systems. This facility is accredited by the U.S. Department of Defense as a trusted facility capable of producing sensitive equipment.
Tech Advancements
Albany NanoTech, operated by NY Creates, is actively involved in various space application projects. These include 'scalable arrayed superconducting nanowire single photon detectors' for advanced telescope applications and chips designed for data centers in space, which can use solar power. Moreover, the demand for radiation-hardened chips, vital for withstanding the challenging conditions in space, is on the rise. GlobalFoundries is already providing such chips, for example, supplying the RAD510, an on-board computer chip for NASA's Perseverance rover on Mars, starting next year. IBM in Albany is also contributing, having made 5-nanometer chips used in Huntsville, Alabama, demonstrating the region's diverse technological capabilities and contribution to space exploration.
Growing Momentum
The Capital Region's prominence in the microelectronics sector has been building up quietly, gaining considerable momentum in recent times. As Dave Anderson, president of NY Creates, has noted, the region is pioneering next-generation research and development efforts in this field. The growing need for these chips and the region's capability to deliver them makes it a crucial resource. This advancement is highlighted by partnerships between key players such as GlobalFoundries and BAE Systems. This collaboration not only showcases the region's growing capabilities but also strengthens the area's position in the global space and technology landscape. As the need for advanced space technology increases, the Capital Region is well-positioned to drive innovation and support the space industry.
