ARMing the Next Generation of Spaceflight Embedded Platforms Through Processor Reusability

With advances in space technology steering toward the need for improved computing complexity and power requirements to support future space missions, many organizations have pushed to develop space-rated processors to meet these demands. One technological challenge then becomes selecting and implementing a fast and reliable microprocessor suitable for each specific mission that will encompass the fundamental requirements necessary for radiation-tolerant environments. A single space-qualified ARM® processor is said to have the ability to revolutionize these heavy computing requirements, providing appropriate radiation tolerance and reduced power consumption essential for various space systems. The implementation of a single microprocessor for a wide range of targeted systems provides the potential for cost reduction, and design simplification. Most importantly, a consistent architecture would greatly improve platform reusability across different space missions. The research team has investigated the use of an ARM processor design to determine the viability of using this single architecture across various spaceflight embedded systems. The performance capabilities and power consumption are evaluated for different configurations which are established based on current offerings. This paper describes the investigation, analysis, and conclusions of this research.