Collaborating with Industry Leaders, Frontgrade Gaisler is Developing Advanced Microprocessors for Next-Generation Space Missions Using Cutting-Edge 7nm Technology
Under a new contract with the European Space Agency (ESA), Frontgrade Gaisler is leading an ambitious initiative to ensure European sovereignty in advanced semiconductor technologies for space applications. The project aims to develop core technology for some of the world’s most sophisticated integrated circuits for space, using Ultra Deep Sub-Micron (UDSM) nodes as advanced as 7nm.
As part of the ESA-supported programme “EEE Components Sovereignty for Space in Europe”, Frontgrade Gaisler is collaborating with industry leaders such as imec (Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre vzw) and IMST GmbH, to benefit from their collective expertise in high-performance microprocessors, advanced semiconductor libraries and high-speed memory interfaces. To meet the growing performance needs in space computing, the project will incorporate cutting-edge technologies from related developments and partners, including high-speed serial interfaces, die-to-die interconnects and System-in-Package concepts.
“ESA is proud to support this groundbreaking initiative, which represents a crucial step towards European sovereignty in advanced semiconductor technologies for space,” said Boris Glass, ESA Technical Officer. “By investing in Ultra Deep Sub-Micron processes, such as 7nm FinFET CMOS technology, we are ensuring that Europe remains at the forefront of innovation and space autonomy, while securing the technology needed for next-generation space exploration and satellite constellations. This collaboration with Frontgrade Gaisler and its industrial partners is essential to meet the evolving demands of the space sector and strengthen Europe’s capabilities on the world stage.”
The initial goal of the consortium is to create radiation-hardened intellectual property libraries and kernels that will serve as the basis for highly reliable and efficient integrated circuits based on UDSM. Based on this, an advanced RISC-V microprocessor prototype will be developed and tested for performance and radiation hardness.
In a future project, this microprocessor prototype will evolve towards full functionality, production and qualification, providing Europe with autonomous and highly competitive space computing capabilities, enabling advanced AI and Edge computing to meet the requirements of next-generation satellite constellations and deep space missions.
“Frontgrade Gaisler has decades of experience supplying the space sector with advanced semiconductor products, which lends itself well to the work of the EEE Space Component Sovereignty for Europe,” said Sandi Habinc, Managing Director of Frontgrade Gaisler. “Through this program, we are leveraging our expertise – and that of our fellow participants – to advance UDSM technology and strengthen our position in this sector.”
With its extensive experience, Frontgrade Gaisler is well positioned to deploy the next generation of space microprocessors. Since its inception, the team has been committed to delivering tangible benefits that contribute to the progress and growth of the entire space community and that pave the way for new types of space missions, thereby providing long-term growth opportunities for the entire industry.