Aeluma Receives U.S. Department of Energy Contract for Scalable Semiconductor Sensors

Rhea-AI Summary

Aeluma (NASDAQ:ALMU) has secured a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) contract to develop low-cost shortwave infrared (SWIR) photodetectors. The project focuses on creating commercially viable SWIR detection solutions that support wavelengths beyond the visible spectrum, important for quality inspection, remote sensing, and machine vision applications.

The company's technology integrates high-performance compound semiconductors with large-diameter substrates, enabling scalable SWIR devices that combine performance with cost efficiency. This development aims to overcome current SWIR technology limitations such as high costs, large form factors, and power inefficiencies.

This marks Aeluma's second DOE-funded initiative, adding to their previous contracts from DARPA, the Navy, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Air Force, and NASA. The technology targets applications in mobile, AR/VR, defense and aerospace, AI infrastructure, communication, and quantum computing markets.

Positive

• Secured new DOE contract for commercial SWIR technology development
• Technology enables cost-effective, scalable manufacturing of high-performance sensors
• Strong government contract portfolio with multiple agencies
• Targeting high-growth markets including mobile, AR/VR, defense, and quantum computing

Negative

• Current products still in development phase
• Commercial viability yet to be proven

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

All statements in this press release that are not historical are forward-looking statements, including, among other things, statements relating to the Company's expectations regarding its market position and market opportunity, expectations and plans as to its product development, manufacturing and sales, and relations with its partners and investors. These statements are not historical facts but rather are based on the Company's current expectations, estimates, and projections regarding its business, operations and other similar or related factors. Words such as "may," "will," "could," "would," "should," "anticipate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "expect," "intend," "plan," "project," "believe," "estimate," and other similar or related expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult or impossible to predict and, in some cases, beyond the Company's control. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update information in this release to reflect events or circumstances in the future, even if new information becomes available.

Company

Aeluma, Inc.
(805) 351-2707
info@aeluma.com

Investor Contact:

Bishop IR
Mike Bishop
(415) 894-9633
ir@aeluma.com

SOURCE: Aeluma, Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

FAQ

What is the purpose of Aeluma's (ALMU) new DOE contract for SWIR photodetectors?

The contract aims to develop low-cost, commercially viable shortwave infrared photodetectors that overcome current limitations in SWIR technology, targeting applications in quality inspection, remote sensing, and machine vision.

How will ALMU's SWIR technology benefit consumer markets?

The technology's eye-safe nature and improved efficiency make it suitable for consumer applications in mobile devices, AR/VR systems, and automotive markets, while offering cost-effective solutions at scale.

What are the current limitations of SWIR technology that Aeluma (ALMU) aims to address?

Current SWIR technologies face challenges with high costs, large form factors, and power inefficiencies that prevent mainstream adoption, which Aeluma aims to solve through their CMOS-compatible solution.

Which government agencies have awarded contracts to Aeluma (ALMU)?

Aeluma has received contracts from the DOE (twice), DARPA, Navy, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Air Force, and NASA.