As demand rises for compact satellites featuring advanced computational systems for missions lasting five to ten years, the limitations of ultra-deep-submicron FPGAs and ASICs become evident. These high-performance processors necessitate low-voltage, high-current power and are challenged by thermal and radiation conditions in space. Spacechips addresses these needs with its AI1 transponder, an onboard processor with an Adaptive Compute Acceleration Platform (ACAP) AI accelerator offering up to 133 TOPS. This facilitates real-time applications in Earth observation, ISAM, SIGINT, and ISR. Notably, the AI1 processor can intelligently analyze data in orbit, mitigating bandwidth issues. Collaborating with Vicor, Spacechips employs the Factorized Power Architecture (FPA) for effective power management in space, enhancing efficiency while reducing weight. This partnership establishes a benchmark for reliable, powerful processing aboard satellites, paving the way for innovative applications in both space and terrestrial environments.
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