A new complementary multi-core data processor for space applications

Analysing the trend of the aerospace technology market, two of the most prominent research and development areas are represented by completely autonomous spacecraft and space robotics technology advancement. To satisfy this development, the near future space missions will increasingly need enhanced computational capabilities to fulfil the demand of the new on-board subsystems. In these past years, NASA and ESA have already demonstrated to be interested in multi-core processors for space applications. In this paper, ARCA Dynamics will present the results of the development of a complementary multi-core data processor built with COTS components, designed and prototyped to satisfy the technology need for high computational capabilities. It takes advantage of a graphics processing unit (GPU) using a CUDA framework for parallel computing. Such device, considered as a processing unit complementary to the on-board computer, would enable small spacecraft to perform autonomously complex tasks that nowadays can only be performed on-ground. In the frame of this work, two different test applications will be reported: on-board attitude determination and on-ground optimal trajectory planning based on AI. Conclusions will address the future applications of multi-core processing boards for space applications.