SpaceCube 2.0: An Advanced Hybrid Onboard Data Processor

The SpaceCube 2.0 is a compact, high-performance, low-power onboard processing system that takes advantage of cutting-edge hybrid (CPU/FPGA/DSP) processing elements. The SpaceCube 2.0 design concept includes two commercial Virtex-5 field-programmable gate array (FPGA) parts protected by “radiation hardened by software” technology, and possesses exceptional size, weight, and power characteristics [5×5×7 in., 3.5 lb (≈12.7×12.7×17.8 cm, 1.6 kg) 5–25 W, depending on the application’s required clock rate]. The two Virtex-5 FPGA parts are implemented in a unique back-to-back configuration to maximize data transfer and computing performance.