μCSP: A Diminutive, Hybrid, Space Processor for Smart Modules and CubeSats

The nature of on-board, satellite computing systems is evolving, from centralized to distributed systems, so as to reap benefits in performance, scalability, configurability, and dependability. These distributed systems will feature space computers and smart modules (e.g., smart instruments, smart actuators), each with capability for networking and processing. To address processing and networking needs of future smart modules, as well as improve computing capability for lower-end CubeSats, we developed a new system known as μCSP. Like its more powerful counterpart, the CSPv1, μCSP is designed with a hybrid mix of commercial and radiation-hardened components supplemented with mechanisms from fault-tolerant computing. μCSP also features a hybrid processor architecture, with a mix of fixed and reconfigurable logic, but all in a smaller form factor with lower SWaP-C. μCSP is smaller than a credit card and designed to integrate into (but not be limited to) 1U SmallSat form factors. Research showcased in this paper also includes an overview of our concepts for smart modules in distributed computing systems for space, both within a single spacecraft and across multiple spacecraft, in terms of a framework for the construction of a variety of reusable, modular 1U boards with varying functionality for enhanced satellite capability and configuration