Composite bonding R&D Award to Space Micro
Monitors contamination on surfaces for Air Force applications

SAN DIEGO, CA - April 19, 2005 - Space Micro Inc. has been selected for research and development of an innovative concept for quality inspection of bonding joints in composites. This effort is being partially supported by the Air Force Materials Laboratory under a Phase I SBIR contract. This work will demonstrate the technical feasibility of monitoring the contamination levels of surfaces prior to composite bonding. This technique, once commercialized, would result in dramatically improved processing and reliability of composite structures. Composite materials are being used increasingly on aircraft structures and as they are used in more critical areas, the quality of the adhesives bonds must be assured. Surface cleanliness is essential for reliable adhesive bonding. Current monitor methods for checking surface cleanliness risk further contamination of the surface and are not easy to use. This work will pursue an operator-friendly non-contact method capable of detecting any contaminant over a large area just prior to bonding.

We are very pleased to have the opportunity to partner with the Air Force to demonstrate this concept and introduce as a potential solution for composite manufacturers, said Mr. Carl Edwards, Director of Space Micro's Advanced Materials Division. "We believe this program is an important step towards improving structural reliability in the military and space environments".

About Space Micro Inc.

Founded in 2000 as a satellite technology research and development company, Space Micro Inc. is a pioneer in providing radiation hardened by design solutions for advanced electronic systems and microelectronics. Space Micro has completed development of the world"s most advanced satellite computers, the Proton100k and Proton200k products. In 2004, Space Micro purchased CyberDog Communication, Inc. and formed the Rocket Science Security Division to offer world class information security products. Key government customers include NASA, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the Air Force. Our management team includes two of the founders of Space Electronics Inc., an industry leader in satellite microelectronics. Space Micro Inc. is a privately held company, with headquarters in Poway, California and engineering/production facility in San Diego, CA.

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