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Communication Satellite in Space

End-to-End Space Solutions for High-Reliability Connectivity

In space, there are no second chances: every component must withstand extreme conditions, from radiation to mechanical stress. As missions grow more complex, engineers are challenged to reduce size and weight while increasing speed, data capacity and system resilience. Molex and AirBorn, a Molex company, deliver mission-proven space connectors engineered for durability, miniaturization and high-speed performance to help maximize payload efficiency and ensure system integrity in Earth’s atmosphere and beyond.

Innovative Space-Rated Connectivity for High-Performance Systems


Space missions demand more from every hardware component: long-term reliability, reduced size and weight, and seamless integration in some of the harshest environments imaginable. From radiation exposure and mechanical stress to extreme temperature swings, interconnect systems must deliver consistent functionality over long durations. At the same time growing demand for data-intensive applications like Earth observation and global communications are pushing engineers to rethink how space systems are built and connected.

Solutions to these evolving technical challenges must be engineered for durability, density and data integrity. High-reliability designs are essential to prevent mission failure and protect valuable equipment. Space connectors must also deliver more functionality in a reduced footprint, supporting compact system designs while enabling high-speed communication, real-time processing and efficient data handling throughout the mission lifecycle.

AirBorn and Molex deliver end-to-end space connectivity solutions designed to meet these demands. Our portfolio includes high-density, lightweight and radiation-tolerant interconnects that meet NASA and MIL-SPEC requirements, with a strong track record of mission-proven performance. Our innovative products for space use advanced materials, robust electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection and enhanced signal integrity to support secure, high-speed transmission across long distances.

Reliable Interconnects Engineered for Evolving Mission Requirements


Proven Reliability and Durability Across Generations of Space Flight

Space missions demand components that can endure the punishing extremes of space and other planets such as radiation, mechanical shock and wide temperature swings without compromising performance, safety or reliability.

Molex and AirBorn deliver space-rated connectors made from advanced, radiation-resistant materials with a legacy of success across NASA programs, from Apollo to Mars exploration. Backed by decades of flight heritage, these rugged and reliable interconnects are engineered for long-term reliability in space flight applications.

Space Rover in a Rugged, Harsh Space Environment

Miniaturized Interconnects Maximize Payload and Minimize Launch Costs

The growing complexity of space missions puts increased pressure on engineering to reduce system size and weight. Compact, high-density interconnects are essential to free up space for added instrumentation or fuel, extending mission range and capability. Lightweight space connectors from Molex and AirBorn are engineered for optimal space efficiency, enabling more functionality in a smaller footprint while minimizing launch costs and maximizing design flexibility.

Spacecraft Launch

Maintaining Signal Integrity in Data-Intensive Space Applications

The rising demand for data-driven applications, ranging from Earth observation to onboard processing, requires space systems capable of handling large volumes of information at high speeds. To keep pace, space connectors must deliver reliable, high-bandwidth performance with minimal signal loss. Molex and AirBorn provide high-density interconnects and integrated power-data systems that preserve signal integrity, supporting fast, secure data flow in compact, mission-critical designs.

International Space Station

Blog

Molex and AirBorn: A Strategic Acquistion Poised to Transform Aerospace and Defense Connectivity Solutions

The acquisition of AirBorn marks a major leap forward in delivering rugged, high-reliability connectivity solutions for space applications. By combining the global engineering leadership of Molex with the legacy of innovation and mission-proven performance of AirBorn products, the new Aerospace and Defense Solutions Division is uniquely positioned to meet evolving customer demands. Backed by decades of expertise and trusted industry partnerships, this strategic move sets a new standard for end-to-end space connectivity.

Mission Control Center

Space Connectivity from AirBorn: Engineered for Extreme Environments

The connector portfolio from AirBorn delivers rugged, high-performance solutions built for extreme space environments, while delivering mission-critical reliability. From micro-miniature board-to-board interconnects to cable assemblies and custom electronic solutions, AirBorn supports a wide range of solutions for space applications. Explore the full lineup of space-rated and MIL-SPEC-compliant products designed to solve the most complex connectivity challenges.

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