Intel Corp. developed the Starfire processor, designed for on-board data processing and performing artificial intelligence tasks on satellites. The processor is currently undergoing testing and is designed for stable operation in space conditions. Its initial availability to customers is expected until the end 2026 year.
For reference: Intel Corporation is one of the world's largest manufacturers of semiconductor elements and devices, is best known as a developer and manufacturer of x86-series microprocessors, processors for IBM-compatible personal computers. Intel also produces processors for embedded systems and other devices, which relate to communications and the latest technologies.
The development was financed by the company's internal resources. The decision to create Starfire is due to the growing role of space as a sphere of US national security and the expansion of commercial satellite groups. Процесор адаптує сучасну архітектуру системи на кристалі (SoC) до умов орбіти, інтегруючи центральний процесор, графічні, нейронні та засоби обробки зображень. Це дозволяє зменшити розміри, mass and energy consumption of on-board systems with increased computing capabilities.
Starfire is designed for missions lasting more than ten years and is equipped with radiation shielding. The company offers two versions: low power (Less 10 W) and highly productive. Radiation tests are planned to be completed by the end of the third quarter 2026 year. Negotiations are underway with US government agencies for an experimental flight of the processor this year.
Drafting, screening and qualification of Starfire is done in the USA, which reduces supply chain risks. The company is positioning the processor for a wide range of government and commercial spacecraft, in particular small satellites. Starfire supports as standard features (telemetry, data compression, autonomous planning), so are the tasks of artificial intelligence (image analysis, detection of objects, sensor data fusion, etc).
The processor runs Ubuntu Linux (popular, a free and convenient operating system for computers, laptops, servers) and uses the x86 architecture, which simplifies software development. The company plans to provide engineering support and qualification test data, positioning itself as a partner, rather than just a component supplier.
Source: https://spacenews.com