Failure is not an option
Our custom sensors operate flawlessly from Mars to the International Space Station and on satellites and shuttles in between. Learn more about the technology behind some of our most high-profile NASA collaborations.
FUTEK’s decades-long partnership with NASA is built on trust in our expertise and quality. We’re proud to develop sensor solutions that literally and figuratively go above and beyond, all made in the USA. Discover how we can push the boundaries of sensor technology for your project.
Why trust FUTEK for your space grade sensors development?
FUTEK’s space collaborations with partners such as NASA, Raytheon, MIT, Lockheed Martin, and JPL have allowed us to support some of the most important scientific achievements of our time. As an ISO9001-2008 accredited, AS9100 compliant, ANSI-Z540 certified, and ISO 17025 A2LA approved design and manufacturing house, FUTEK has had the privilege to develop new technologies to withstand the unexpected environments that space presents. We possess the capabilities needed to develop load cells, torque sensors, and multi-axial sensors that meet the complex requirements of cryogenic and vacuum environments. Here, we have assembled snapshots of some of the most significant ventures.
Discover how our sensors are optimized to suit your precise aerospace requirements.
Cryogenics
Our sensors perform perfectly in extreme temperatures. For example, for the Raytheon VIIRS Satellite project we produced two cryogenic sensors able to withstand –300°F (–184°C).
Vacuum-Compatible
We work closely with the end user to understand what out-gassing requirements they may have so we can tailor our designs to meet their needs.
Overload Protection
FUTEK’s proprietary EDM machining technology has allowed us to pioneer space graded sensors with 60x integrated and bidirectional overload protection. Traditional sensors typically have 150% safe overload.
AS9100
Alongside being ISO 9001:2008 certified, FUTEK is compliant to AS9100:2009, which is the standardized quality management system for the aerospace industry.
J-STD-001 Soldering
FUTEK’s technical operators have been trained to comply with NASA's J-STD-001, the soldering standard for electronic hardware in space applications.
Miniature Models
FUTEK is an industry leader in sensor miniaturization, developing lightweight models with a wide range of capacities and capabilities that equal those of standard-sized sensors.
Multiple Bridges
For applications that require multiple bridge outputs, FUTEK’s sensors can be built or modified to support dual to quad bridge measurement requirements.
Space-Grade Materials
We actively test and review every element for optimal performance and application requirement. Our materials comply with strict outgassing, vacuum, temperature, and radiation requirements.
Radiation tolerance
We have the capabilities to engineer and develop space grade sensors with radiation tolerance. We are confident that we can meet your requirements and even surpass your expectations.
IPC 620
FUTEK meets the exacting IPC 620 standard of practices and requirements for the manufacture of cable, wire and harness assemblies.
Fatigue rated
We make sensors with extreme durability that endure fatigue tests through millions of cycles. There’s a reason why our sensors on Mars have operated impeccably since 2012.
Shock and vibration resistant
FUTEK introduced the industry-first spike shock resistant force sensor in 2001. Since then, we have worked with best-in-class laboratories to continue to perfect our seniors' performance.
Podcast:
“On a Mission”
Listen to our CEO Javad Mokhbery and Director of Quality Thomas Bowles discuss how FUTEK solved NASA's challenging Mars rover requirements.
Aerospace applications
Explore our aerospace applications to see how our sensors perform crucial tasks in extreme conditions.