Bringing supercomputing to next-gen space applications

Aitech has developed the S-A1760 Venus, which the company claims is the most powerful and smallest radiation-characterised space AI GPGPU. The new, small form factor (SFF) system is rated for space flight and small satellite constellations used in near Earth orbit (NEO) and low Earth orbit (LEO) applications.

The COTS-based system is validated for use in these short duration and NEO/LEO environments through the Series 300 level qualification standard that identifies the rad-tolerant needs of space components and systems not used in deep space or long-haul applications.

Dan Mor, Director, Video and GPGPU Product Line at Aitech, noted: “With the growing need for advanced imaging and data processing throughout space-rated applications, transitioning our powerful GPGPU-based AI supercomputers to this industry was a logical choice. By validating these space-rated, COTS-based systems with a clearly defined and recognised qualification level, we’re helping lead the charge in the development of commercial space applications and small sat cluster innovations.”

Based on Aitech’s A176 Cyclone GPGPU system, the S-A1760 Venus also uses the NVIDIA Jetson TX2i system-on-module (SoM) that features the Pascal architecture with 256 CUDA cores and reaches 1 TFLOPS of processing. This compact, rugged, space-rated system is ideal for high performance, small footprint environments. It is the most advanced solution for on-board edge computing such as AI, deep learning and video and signal processing for the next generation of short duration spaceflight, NEO and LEO satellites applications.

The new AI supercomputer includes a robust set of I/O interfaces including Gigabit Ethernet, UART Serial, USB 2.0, CANbus and discretes as well as DVI/HDMI output. Video capture includes an HD-SDI input with a dedicated H.264 encoder and eight RS-170A (NTSC)/PAL composite channels available simultaneously. 

The S-A1760 Venus is a truly SFF SWaP (size, weight and power) optimized system. It meets MIL-STD-810H requirements for bench handling and conforms to VITA 47 for shock and vibration. 

S-A1760 Venus Technical Specifications

• Suitable for the next-gen of short duration spaceflight, NEO and LEO satellite constellations
• NVIDIA Jetson TX2i SoM with 256 CUDA cores reaching 1 TFLOPS
• COTS-based system meets new Series 300 level qualifications
• Local data processing onboard where needed, next to sensors
• SWaP-optimised with remarkable energy efficiency, 8-10W typical under load