Funding to Accelerate Development of Low-Cost Photodetectors Applicable to Mobile, AR/VR, and Industrial Markets
GOLETA, CA / ACCESS Newswire / April 23, 2025 / Aeluma, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALMU), a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance, scalable technologies for mobile, automotive, AI, defense and aerospace, communication, and quantum computing, announced today it has received a contract from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to develop commercially viable, low-cost shortwave infrared (SWIR) photodetectors. The award will accelerate commercialization of Aeluma's wafer-scale platform for high-sensitivity, energy-efficient photodetector sensors applicable across critical growth sectors.
The DOE-backed project targets development of a breakthrough solution for SWIR detection-supporting wavelengths beyond the visible spectrum that are critical for applications in quality inspection, remote sensing, and machine vision. SWIR is also eye safe, enabling high-performance systems in consumer markets including mobile, AR/VR, and automotive.
"Today's SWIR technologies are held back by high costs, large form factors, and power inefficiencies that prevent mainstream adoption," said Dr. Jonathan Klamkin, Founder and CEO of Aeluma. "This DOE contract positions Aeluma to deliver a scalable, CMOS-compatible solution that combines high sensitivity with cost efficiency. This is a critical step in unlocking SWIR sensing for commercial applications."
Aeluma's technology integrates high-performance compound semiconductors with large-diameter substrates, enabling SWIR devices that deliver on performance requirements while also being manufactured at scale. The DOE contract will support development of a new class of sensors designed to serve real-time inspection and imaging needs at a fraction of the cost of today's SWIR systems, and reflects a growing urgency to bring SWIR sensing into mainstream commercial markets.
The program aligns with Aeluma's broader commercial roadmap, which targets mobile, AR/VR, defense and aerospace, AI infrastructure, communication, and quantum computing. It also marks Aeluma's second DOE-funded initiative and follows wins from DARPA, the Navy, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Air Force, and NASA.
About Aeluma, Inc.
Aeluma (www.aeluma.com) develops photonics and optoelectronics for sensing, computing, and communication applications. Aeluma has pioneered a technique to manufacture semiconductor chips using high-performance compound semiconductor materials on large-diameter substrates that are commonly used for mass-market microelectronics. The technology has the potential to enhance performance and scale manufacturing, both of which are critical for emerging applications. Aeluma is developing a streamlined business model from its headquarters in Santa Barbara, California that has a state-of-the-art manufacturing cleanroom. Its transformative semiconductor chip technology may impact a variety of markets including mobile, defense and aerospace, AI, automotive, AR/VR, quantum, and communication. Aeluma differentiates itself with unique semiconductor manufacturing capability, proprietary technology, the ability to perform rapid prototyping, and a broad set of product offerings.
Forward-Looking Statements
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Company
Aeluma, Inc.
(805) 351-2707
info@aeluma.com
Investor Contact:
Bishop IR
Mike Bishop
(415) 894-9633
ir@aeluma.com
SOURCE: Aeluma, Inc.
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