IAC, Sydney, Oct 10, 2025 – Axiom Space and Resonac have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore semiconductor material research, development, and manufacturing in microgravity. The partnership aims to use Axiom’s space infrastructure to test how zero-gravity conditions can improve chip material performance and production methods.
“The unique environment of space offers immense potential for advancing semiconductor materials, especially in crystal growth,” said Masato Fukushima, Resonac chief technology officer. “Partnering with Axiom Space, we aim to accelerate experiments and drive innovation in materials, fostering industrial growth and societal progress.”
Under the agreement, Axiom Space and Resonac will study how microgravity and low-Earth orbit (LEO) vacuum conditions can support semiconductor materials and chip packaging. The lack of convection and sedimentation in microgravity enables the growth of defect-free semiconductor crystals, resins, and 2D materials. The companies plan to use the International Space Station, Axiom Space’s orbital platforms, and the future Axiom Station to commercial manufacturing.
Under the MOU, Resonac plans to extend its current work with Axiom Space to develop molding compounds that can reduce soft errors in semiconductors when exposed to space radiation. Soft errors occur when cosmic rays enter a transistor, displacing electrons and inverting data bits. To address this issue, Resonac is testing devices made with different molding material compositions in the external and internal environment of the International Space Station.
“Our collaboration with Resonac underscores how Axiom Space is enabling global corporations from around the world to leverage space to drive manufacturing innovation across critical technology sectors such as semiconductors,” said Koichi Wakata, Axiom Space astronaut and chief technology officer.
Divya Panchanathan, global lead for In-Space semiconductor commercialization at Axiom Space, added, “Space offers pristine conditions to unlock material properties that can’t be replicated on Earth, and with Resonac’s strong semiconductor materials expertise, we aim to fuel in-space innovations and enable new technologies to drive industrialization in low-Earth orbit.”
Source: Axiom Space
About Axiom Space
Axiom Space, established in 2016, is a Houston-based private aerospace company specializing in human spaceflight services and the development of commercial space infrastructure. The company offers end-to-end crewed missions to the International Space Station (ISS) for private individuals, corporations, and governmental entities, facilitating in-space research, manufacturing, and exploration. Axiom is actively constructing the world’s first commercial space station, Axiom Station, designed to initially attach to the ISS and later operate independently, ensuring continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit. As of 2023, the company employs approximately 790 individuals. Axiom has secured significant contracts and investments, underscoring its prominent role in the burgeoning commercial space industry.
About Resonac Corporation
Resonac Holdings Corp., formerly known as Showa Denko, is a chemical and industrial materials company based in Tokyo. Founded in 1939, the company operates in petrochemicals, electronics, aluminum products, inorganic materials, mobility and innovation materials. Its offerings include semiconductor materials, specialty chemicals, functional resins, graphite electrodes, aluminum foils and advanced industrial products. Resonac serves industries ranging from automotive and electronics to semiconductors and infrastructure. The company was formed through the 2023 merger of Showa Denko and Showa Denko Materials, formerly Hitachi Chemical. For the 12 months through mid-2025, Resonac reported about $9.1B. Its diversified portfolio positions it as a key supplier to the global semiconductor and electronics supply chain while maintaining a presence in broader manufacturing markets. Headquarters are located in Tokyo.