Epson to show quartz MEMS IMU tech at SmallSat 2026

Epson plans to showcase its Quartz MEMS inertial measurement unit technology at Small Satellite Conference 2026 in Salt Lake City, where it will also share radiation-test results and space-qualification updates. The company is positioning the tech for small spacecraft that need precise guidance, navigation and control in compact power- and size-constrained systems.

Why it matters: - Small satellites are taking on more demanding missions, which raises the need for accurate inertial sensing in guidance, navigation and control systems. - Epson is aiming its Quartz MEMS IMU technology at spacecraft developers that need stable measurements in small, power-constrained platforms. - The work could help support precision pointing, autonomous navigation, and other space applications that cannot always rely on external positioning references.

What happened: - Epson will showcase its high-performance Quartz MEMS IMU technology at Small Satellite Conference 2026, held August 23–26 in Salt Lake City, Utah. - Visitors can meet Epson’s inertial sensing specialists at Booth #2005. - Epson plans to present its latest radiation-exposure test results at the conference. - Epson also plans to discuss ongoing space-environment qualification work and its near-term roadmap for expanded environmental and reliability validation.

The details: - Epson’s IMU technology combines precision sensing with proprietary Quartz MEMS technology. - The company says the system is designed to deliver highly stable inertial measurements in a compact form factor. - Epson says the technology can support accurate angular-rate and acceleration measurements while helping satellite builders meet size, weight and power requirements. - The booth discussions will cover guidance, navigation and control needs tied to precision pointing, attitude determination and control, and autonomous navigation. - Epson’s team will also discuss mission profiles including LEO constellations, Earth observation, remote sensing and more demanding space missions. - A link for more information on Epson Microdevice product line is included in the release.

Between the lines: - Epson is using SmallSat 2026 to position itself as a supplier for the space sector, not just industrial sensing markets. - The emphasis on radiation exposure and qualification suggests Epson is still working to expand confidence in the technology for harsher orbital environments. - The company’s pitch centers on helping spacecraft designers shrink systems without giving up measurement performance.

What's next: - Epson will use the conference to gather feedback from spacecraft designers and system developers on mission requirements and qualification needs. - The company is expected to continue testing and validation work to broaden the use of its inertial sensing technology in space. - Epson says its roadmap includes expanded environmental and reliability validation for space applications.

The bottom line: - Epson is pushing Quartz MEMS IMU technology as a compact, high-stability option for small spacecraft that need dependable navigation performance in space.