Flextronics Builds Assemblies for NASA's Curiosity

The microelectronics assemblies, built at the Company’s facility in Valencia, California, integrate into 47 actuators that perform mobility tasks for the movable joints and motion applications. These sensors provide performance feedback from the actuators to the system avionics.

The sensors, called cold encoders, are designed to measure actuator position, velocity and other performance criteria in extreme temperature changes which on Mars range from -128° to +85°C. The data is then used to adjust performance of the actuators allowing Curiosity to move and maneuver.

“Flextronics is extremely proud to have played a part in this historical exploratory mission to Mars,” says Paul Humphries, President of Flextronics High Reliability Solutions group. “We share NASA’s excitement for the complex rover program and are thrilled to have contributed to this important scientific exploration.”

Flextronics’ Valencia facility specializes in highly reliable and durable microelectronics for aerospace, defense and medical applications.

In addition to the electronics assemblies, Multek Flexible Circuits, a Flextronics company that manufactures Sheldahl Brand Materials provided thermal control materials that enabled Curiosity to travel safely to Mars. Multek Flexible Circuits, located in Northfield, MN, is a leader in the development and production of thin film coatings on flexible substrates for satellites, spacecraft and launch vehicles.