New radiation-tolerant microcontrollers introduced for satellite constellations

by Clarence Oxford
Austin, Texas (SPX) Nov 18, 2025

Vorago Technologies announced the release of four new radiation-tolerant microcontrollers designed for low Earth orbit applications, with first shipments expected in early Q1 2026. These chips address the reliability needs of satellite constellations while reducing costs by up to 75% compared to traditional space-grade electronics.

The VA4 family of microcontrollers uses ARM Cortex M4-based cores and includes extended-mission models for harsh orbits and cost-optimized versions suited to short or lower orbit missions. Radiation protection is embedded in the silicon, bypassing the need for multi-chip redundancy and offering integration into existing architectures without redesign.

Bernd Lienhard, CEO of Vorago Technologies, stated, "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." Lienhard also noted, "Our 'rad-tolerance by design' approach - versus upscreening after the fact - significantly cuts weight, complexity, and waste while maintaining mission assurance."

The current VA41630 microcontroller recently achieved QML-Q+ certification from the US Defense Logistics Agency, recognizing its reliability for military and space missions. Vorago is the first small private chip designer to earn this status and is now a preferred supplier for government contracts.

The VA5 microcontroller family, launched last quarter, features dual Arm Cortex-M55 cores and supports advanced applications such as AI, machine learning, and high-precision satellite actuation.

Keith Szewczyk, Vice President at Kyocera-AVX Components, said, "They're the only semiconductor company giving us the flexibility to scale radiation-tolerant microcontrollers across multiple orbits and at multiple price points. That means we can deliver the reliability our satellite developer customers expect - faster, more efficiently, and at a price that makes ambitious missions achievable."

The new VA4 microcontrollers can be integrated into a range of Earth observation systems and communications satellites, providing compact packaging and a high-density solution. Both extended-mission and cost-optimized models are available for primary flight control, thermal regulation, and localized power management.