
Space-Rated Connectors, Cables, and Non-Pyrotechnic Release Mechanisms: Qualified Spacecraft and Satellite Technology with NASA, ESA, and JAXA Flight Heritage
Space connectors, cables and electro-mechanical devices are a unique class of highly-regulated interconnect technologies that utilize specialized materials, processing and testing to insure reliable performance during launch, satellite deployment and throughout operation. Space launch vehicles and payloads are subjected to shock, vibration, and acoustic stress factors which can damage interconnect systems — particularly if material strength, mating retention forces, contact retention technologies or other design elements of connector/cable components are inadequate for peak and/or sustained levels of mechanical stress.
Connector series include MIL-DTL-38999 which can be conditioned for space IAW the following specifications: Space-Grade Guidelines for SuperNine® Connectors
Space-Grade Connector and Interconnect Cable Solutions
Glenair Space-Grade Interconnect Capabilities and Reference Flight Heritage Space-Grade Design-Ins

Glenair Space Systems, Salem, Germany: Glenair has been providing space connectors, HDRM's and interconnect cable solutions meeting NASA, ESA, and JAXA outgassing requirements and MSFC-STD-3012 connector requirements since the earliest manned space flights. At our new space systems facility in Salem, Germany we understand the highly-specialized mechanical, electrical and optical performance requirements for data, video and communications in exo-atmospheric vehicles and apply the utmost care in the design and manufacture of all our space-rated technology — from ultra-lightweight hold down release mechanisms for satellite and satellite equipment deployment to exactingly engineered wire harness assemblies.
Product Videos: Glenair Space Systems Hold Down and Release Mechanisms
Slideshow Presentations
- Space-Grade Interconnect Solutions / Glenair Signature Series
- Glenair Space Systems (GSS) – Salem, Germany
Related Space Connector Catalogs and Technical Documentation
- Datasheet: SGEMP-Resistant Wire
- High-Performance Micro-D Connectors and Cables
- Nano Miniature Circular and Rectangular Connectors / Series 89
- SuperNine® Advanced Performance MIL-DTL-38999 Series III Type Connectors
- Whitepaper: Designing Interconnects for Space
Interconnect Technology for Manned Space Flight
QwikConnect, The Glenair Technical Marketing Magazine
January 2021 • Volume 25 • Number 1
Space-Grade Backshells and Shielding Accessories for Micro-D 83513 and D-Subminiature M24308 (ESCC 3401/072) Series Connectors
Providing Space-Grade Interconnect Solutions Since the Earliest Manned Space Flights: from lightweight Micro-D and M24308 D-Sub Backshells (ESCC 3401/072) to high-performance braided shielding.
Hold Down Release Mechanisms and Other Space Mechanisms
Non-Pyrotechnic Release Mechanisms • Blind Mate (ASF) Connectors • Lanyard-Release Connectors
Complete Dimensional Details and How-To-Order Information for All Glenair Space-Grade Interconnect Technologies
![]() |
Blind-Mate, Float Mount, and Assisted Release (ASF) ConnectorsSpace-grade circular blind-mate connectors IAW MIL-DTL-38999 for use in interconnection and separation of instrumentation panels, satellites, scientific research payloads, and other release applications. |
![]() |
Pyrotechnic-Free Hold-Down and Release and Pin Pusher / Puller Space MechanismsHigh-Reliability, Non-Explosive (Split-Spool) Separation Nuts and Electromechanical Release Mechanisms for Dependable Stowage and Release of Deployable Space Systems |
![]() |
SAE/AS81703 Series 3 Type ConnectorsHigh Shock and Vibration Quick-Release Connectors |
![]() |
Crimp-Contact Micro Rectangular Connectors / Micro-Crimp Series 79, 791, 792Time and labor-saving crimp-contact micro rectangular connectors: Smallest form-factor Series 79, advanced-performance scoop-proof Series 791, and Series 792 for high-speed wire-to-board applications.Slideshow Presentation |
![]() |
HiPer-D® Connectors and AccessoriesHigh-Performance M24308 Intermateable D-Sub Connectors, Space-GradeSeries 28 |
![]() |
83513 Micro-D Connectors and CablesEvery element of the MIL-DTL-83513 Micro-D is exactly controlled — from terminal spacing to approved wire termination methods. Glenair is the world's largest manufacturer and supplier of these wire-to-wire and wire-to-board interconnects. Flight-proven and ESA, NASA, and JAXA qualified. |
![]() |
SpacewireReduced Cost of Ownership, Easy Integration, and High-Performance for Flight and Lab Grade Cable Assemblies.
|
![]() |
Nano Miniature Circular and Rectangular Connectors: MIL-DTL-32139 QPL and Glenair MCOTS SolutionsThe smallest and lightest mil-qualified connector series. The 32139 Nano is ideally suited for rugged defense and aerospace wire-to-board applications.Series 89 |
![]() |
Space-Grade Backshells and Shielding AccessoriesFor Micro-D 83513 and D-Subminiature M24308 (ESCC 3401/072) Series Connectors |
![]() |
Connectorized Flex Circuit Assemblies
|
![]() |
Photonics for Space ApplicationsRuggedized photonics for free-space, fiber optic RF and digital datalinks. For reduced weight and increased bandwidth in high- throughput satellite applications. Radiation-tolerant and other aerospace-grade photonics. |
![]() |
Ultra-Lightweight Tubular Expandable Braided Shielding for Satellite ApplicationsLightweight ArmorLite™ and AmberStrand® weight-reducing EMI/RFI shielding |