Teratech: A RAL Space Spin-out Bound for Jupiter
A RAL Space spin-out company has provided Scottky diode technology for ESA’s JUICE mission.
Challenge
Understanding the origins of Jupiter and whether its icy moons could harbour extra-terrestrial life requires detailed analysis of atmospheric composition, temperature, and surface chemistry from hundreds of millions of miles away. This demands ultra-precise detector technology capable of surviving an eight-year deep space journey.
Artist’s impression of JUICE orbiting Jupiter. Credit: ESA
Teratech’s diode manufacture laboratory, based at RAL Space. Credit: STFC RAL Space
Approach
Teratech Components Limited, a spin-out from RAL Space, developed Schottky diode technology originally created at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory for space astronomy and Earth observation applications. Three Teratech diodes form part of the detector array in ESA’s Submillimetre Wave Instrument aboard the Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE), launched in April 2023. The instrument will investigate the temperature, structure, composition, and dynamics of Jupiter’s atmosphere, as well as the exospheres and surfaces of icy moons Ganymede, Callisto, and Europa. Teratech’s development was supported by STFC’s business development team and benefited from co-location with RAL Space at Harwell Campus.
Benefits
JUICE will arrive at Jupiter in 2031, where its instruments – including Teratech’s diodes – will gather data to determine the chemical history and evolution of the Jovian system. Scientists hope liquid water and key minerals discovered beneath the moons’ surfaces could indicate conditions capable of supporting life. Dr Massimo Noro, Director of Business Development at STFC, described Teratech’s involvement as “a perfect example of how STFC’s world-leading technology, teamed with the right business support, and in this case, Teratech’s location alongside RAL Space at the Harwell Campus, are all key to helping a company flourish.” Teratech’s technology has since expanded beyond space applications into a growing range of commercial uses.
Aerial view of the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.
