Meeting rising New Space demand and enhancing satellite operations, Spirit Electronics teams up with TE Connectivity to boost aerospace and defence sensor offerings.
Spirit Electronics, based in Phoenix, Arizona, has announced a franchised distribution agreement for TE Connectivity’s sensor product lines, enhancing offerings for aerospace and defence clients. This comes as demand for sensing applications increases worldwide.
According to Spirit CEO Marti McCurdy, sensing applications are gaining importance in the burgeoning New Space sector, which focuses on small sats, cube sats, and satellite constellations. Sensing technology is essential for satellite positioning and operational efficiency.
The distribution agreement includes various TE sensor products, such as those for measuring temperature, pressure, force, position, and vibration. These sensors are integral to multiple applications, including cockpit and flight controls, landing gear, and space exploration equipment.
The partnership will also allow Spirit Electronics to expand its product lineup, which includes FPGAs, power management, and other electronic components. With MIL-STD-883 testing and engineering services, Spirit aims to provide comprehensive supply chain support for defence, aerospace, and commercial space programmes.
McCurdy noted, “In space and in flight, sensors are the input point for data collection, monitoring, and detection, and TE Connectivity’s sensors support the full spectrum of our customers’ applications.”
TE’s sensors have supported NASA missions for over 40 years, including thermistors for extended space flight and advanced accelerometers for the Solar Impulse project. These sensors are recognised for their reliability and flexibility, making them essential for aerospace applications.