The extreme conditions of space have long plagued electronics, causing performance issues that hinder vital technologies – but a breakthrough from SemiQon could be poised to change that. Recognizing the limitations of traditional chips in cryogenic temperatures, the company is now exploring how its innovative cryo-CMOS technology – initially developed for quantum computing – can revolutionize space-based electronics. Supported by the European Space Agency, SemiQon is leveraging its world-first cryogenic CMOS to address a critical need for more reliable and efficient systems in orbit, potentially unlocking new possibilities for future space missions and research.
Addressing Challenges in Space Electronics
Addressing the challenges in space electronics requires a paradigm shift, and SemiQon’s cryo-CMOS technology is poised to deliver just that. Traditional electronics falter in the extreme cold and radiation of space, a long-recognized issue for agencies like NASA and DARPA, but SemiQon’s approach – initially developed for quantum computing – offers a compelling solution. Beyond simply functioning in cryogenic temperatures, this technology promises enhanced performance and efficiency, potentially unlocking new capabilities for critical space-based systems. Supported by the European Space Agency’s ESA BIC program, SemiQon is actively exploring diverse applications, from highly sensitive detectors for telescopes – including bolometers for infrared and X-ray astronomy – to advanced digital beamforming for 5G telecommunications and vital components for Lunar and Martian exploration. This collaborative effort leverages ESA’s technical expertise to pinpoint promising use cases and navigate the complexities of the space industry. Kaisa Ahonen, Manager at ESA BIC Finland, highlights the proactive approach of SemiQon, emphasizing the program’s role in connecting the company with crucial networks and fostering a path toward potential integration into future ESA missions. This isn’t just about building chips that survive in space; it’s about building electronics that thrive, ushering in a new era of space technology.
SemiQon’s Cryo-CMOS Technology Explained
SemiQon’s cryo-CMOS technology represents a fundamental departure from conventional chip design, engineered to thrive in the frigid temperatures of space where traditional semiconductors falter. Unlike silicon-based electronics which experience reduced performance and increased susceptibility to radiation damage at low temperatures, SemiQon’s CMOS transistors are specifically optimized for cryogenic operation. Launched in fall 2024, this technology initially stemmed from the company’s work in quantum computing, aiming to scale up quantum processors. However, the unexpectedly high performance of the world’s first cryogenic CMOS revealed broader applications, including a critical need within the space sector. The core innovation lies in maintaining—and even enhancing—electronic performance at extremely low temperatures, offering significant power efficiency gains. This is achieved through careful material selection and transistor design, allowing for faster switching speeds and reduced noise. SemiQon’s collaboration with the ESA BIC program is crucial, providing access to vital expertise in navigating the complexities of space-based applications, identifying promising use cases like advanced telescope detectors (bolometers for infrared and X-ray astronomy) and components for Lunar/Martian exploration, and ultimately, fostering a path towards potential integration into future ESA missions.
ESA BIC Finland & SemiQon’s Partnership
The partnership between ESA BIC Finland and SemiQon represents a strategic alignment aimed at rapidly translating cutting-edge cryo-CMOS technology into viable space applications. Recognizing SemiQon’s maturity – boasting significant technological milestones and a growing commercial team – ESA BIC Finland accepted the company into its specialized incubation program in spring 2025. This wasn’t merely a funding opportunity; it provided crucial access to ESA’s deep technical expertise, allowing SemiQon to swiftly pinpoint promising use cases beyond its initial focus on quantum computing. According to Yukihisa Tsuruta, Business Development Director at SemiQon, ESA’s experts quickly grasped the potential of the cryo-CMOS technology, facilitating identification of applications ranging from highly sensitive telescope components – bolometers for infrared and X-ray astronomy – to advanced digital beamforming for 5G and vital systems for Lunar and Martian exploration. Kaisa Ahonen, Manager at ESA BIC Finland, emphasizes the program’s role in connecting SemiQon with both national and European networks, a long-term investment intended to potentially integrate the technology into future ESA missions. This collaborative approach, fueled by equity-free funding and specialized training, underscores ESA BIC Finland’s commitment to fostering innovation and unlocking the space potential of ambitious European startups like SemiQon.
