The fast-growing satellite industry just got a big boost in cost savings and easier integration. VORAGO Technologies announced the launch of four new radiation-resistant microcontrollers designed for low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. These chips will be much cheaper than traditional space-grade components, with the first ones shipping in early 2026.
VORAGO, the leader in making tough, radiation-proof chips with HARDSIL technology, is now making its highest-quality solutions more accessible. This will benefit the growing number of commercial and government satellite operators using low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.
As more satellite constellations are launched, there’s an escalating demand for electronics that can handle the harsh radiation as well as temperature extremes of space. The number of satellites in orbit is expected to double by 2030, reaching up to 100,000 compared to the current 12,000. Some of the key drivers include:
- Large satellite constellations like Starlink, Project Kuiper, and Eutelsat OneWeb.
- Satellites for communications, media, and research, which support broadband, content distribution, and data collection.
In the past, high reliability came with high costs, bulky parts, and complicated setups, mainly used for deep-space and defense missions. VORAGO is changing this by making its new microcontrollers affordable and suitable for use in low and medium orbits, making them a more reliable and cost-effective option than traditional commercial electronics.
Executive Statement
According to Bernd Lienhard, CEO of Vorago Technologies, space systems can’t afford downtime, and they can’t afford to fail in orbit. Debris now rivals active satellites for space in many low-orbit areas. As more companies move into space, the expanded VA4 family delivers the reliability needed to operate satellites in orbit and complete their missions securely, without requiring three backup systems to get there. It’s a smarter, more sustainable way to scale satellite constellations without contributing to space junk.