Very Dense High Speed 3u VPX Memory and Processing Space Systems

While VPX shows promise as an open standard COTS computing and memory platform, there are several challenges that must be overcome to migrate the technology for a space application. For the Phase I SBIR, SEAKR investigated the 3u VPX architecture for the space environment for advanced memory and processing systems. The SBIR investigation focused on researching innovative switch fabric architectures, identifying and qualifying the building blocks for a space qualified VPX system, and addressed some of the challenges associated with VPX flash memory modules. The areas of innovation that have been addressed are outlined below: Research and evaluate the basic building blocks required for a high speed switch VPX architecture Explore advanced EDAC and innovative wear leveling techniques for commercially upscreened flash memory for space applications Evaluate different techniques for very high speed flash memory access rates The Phase II SBIR will build on the Phase I study to produce a deliverable engineering model of a 3U VPX flash memory module.

In addition to NASA phase III opportunities, there are several programs within AFRL and MDA which could be potential phase III candidates. These programs are considering the 6U version because of redundancy and enhanced functionality. The Precision Tracking Space System (PTSS) is a MDA program that is being lead by the John Hopkins Advanced Physics Laboratory (APL). The PTSS optical payload processor has requirements for a high speed, low power, non-volatile memory module. The optical payload deputy, Matt Grey, is interested in having NASA fund the phase II SBIR in support of his program. His email is matthew.grey@jhuapl.edu.

There are several programs that could utilize an advanced integrated memory and processing system. The NASA Earth Science Technology Office (ESTO) is funding the development of the SpaceCube 2.0 system to support the upcoming series of Earth Science Decadal Survey missions including HyspIRI, ACE, LIST, DESDynI, GEO-CAPE, and 3D-Winds. It is also in the baseline architecture for the new Robotic Servicing program called 3+ missions under Mr. Frank Cepollina (deputy director for Hubble). Several Space Science missions (MMS follow-on, TESS, next-gen telescopes, Venus mission) are considering or doing proof-of-concept demos with SpaceCube. The POC for the ESTO and SpaceCube 2.0 is Mr. Thomas Flatley, the branch head of Science Data and Processing (Code 587). He is very interested in working with SEAKR to develop a high speed NVM module and has been briefed on SEAKR's phase 1 SBIR objectives. His email is thomas.p.flatley@nasa.gov.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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