Microchip Advances Space-Grade Timing with Enhanced Radiation Tolerance and Extended Temperature Performance

CHANDLER, Ariz., Aug. 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The growing New Space market is fueling demand for smaller, less expensive space hardware to support short-duration missions for applications such as satellite-to-cellular communications, alternative navigation and Earth imaging. Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announces it expanded its atomic clock portfolio with the radiation-tolerant Space CSAC-SA65, a Chip Scale Atomic Clock designed to deliver precise timing for space systems. The device provides a compact, low-power alternative to traditional radiation-hardened timing solutions, helping developers reduce size, weight, power and cost while maintaining accuracy.

Building on the heritage of Microchip's Space CSAC-SA45, the Space CSAC-SA65 extends radiation tolerance to at least 30 kRad and operates in extended temperature ranges from –40°C to +80°C. Consuming less than 120 mW and occupying less than 17 cc of volume, the device is optimized for size-, weight- and power-constrained satellite designs. Its built-in 1 PPS input and output capabilities support synchronization for satellite systems, while its atomic stability enables extended operation without continuous reliance on external timing references such as Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals.