Advancing Radiation-Hardened GaN Technologies at G-RADNEXT 2026

Advancing Radiation-Hardened GaN Technologies at G-RADNEXT 2026

The G-RADNEXT 2026, hosted by ENEA in Frascati, Italy, brought together over 150 experts from across industry and research to explore the latest developments in radiation effects on semiconductor devices.

Held at the historic Villa Mondragone, the event provided a unique platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and forward-looking discussions on the future of space electronics.

A Focus on Radiation-Hardened GaN for Space

During the workshop, Simon Wainwright, CEO of Semi Zabala, presented
“Radiation Hardened GaN Components for Space”, highlighting the growing importance of gallium nitride (GaN) technologies in enabling high-performance systems capable of operating in extreme environments.

As space missions become increasingly complex, the demand for reliable, radiation-tolerant components continues to rise. In this context, wide-bandgap materials such as GaN offer clear advantages:

• Higher efficiency and power density

• Superior thermal performance

• Enhanced robustness under radiation exposure

These characteristics position GaN as a key technology for next-generation space applications.

Driving Innovation Through Collaboration: The SAGAN Project

A key element of Semi Zabala’s contribution to this field is its involvement in collaborative initiatives such as the
👉 SAGAN Project

The SAGAN project focuses on advancing GaN technologies for high-reliability applications, supporting the development of components capable of meeting the stringent requirements of space environments.

By fostering collaboration across industry, research institutions, and innovation stakeholders, SAGAN contributes to strengthening Europe’s technological capabilities in both the semiconductor and space sectors.

Key Takeaways from G-RADNEXT 2026

The event underscored several important trends shaping the future of radiation-hardened electronics:

• The increasing relevance of GaN in space systems

• The need for advanced radiation testing methodologies

• The importance of cross-sector collaboration to accelerate innovation

Beyond the technical discussions, G-RADNEXT 2026 also provided valuable opportunities to connect with leading experts and explore new partnerships.

Looking Ahead

At Semi Zabala, we remain committed to supporting the advancement of wide-bandgap technologies and enabling their application in the most demanding environments.

Our participation in G-RADNEXT 2026 reinforces our dedication to driving innovation, contributing to collaborative projects, and helping shape the future of radiation-hardened electronics for space.