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FeatherBox is a compact Data Processing Unit for artificial intelligence applications on-orbit. It's small size (0.5U) makes it compatible with most satellite platforms. Rather than sending large sets of raw data down to ground stations, FeatherBox can process sensor data from multiple sources and only send down the relevant information. Processing data on orbit reduces downlink costs and improves response times to observable events. 

 

Integrated into FeatherBox is a machine learning system capable of performing 4 trillion operations per second (4 TOPS). If more processing is required, the system can scale by pipelining models across multiple processors. Precision thermal management is handled within the enclosure, meaning there is little to no need for additional external thermal control systems. 

 

Combined with FeatherWare, it provides a complete artificial intelligence payload for on-orbit image processing, enabling autonomous decision making in space. 

Flight
Qualified

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DATASHEET

Dimensions: 96 mm x 96 mm x 50 mm

Mass: 1.4 kg

Power: 3W idle, 7.5 W typical, 22 W peak (tens of microseconds)

Unlock the potential of AI in Space

Combining Cutting-Edge Technology with Reliability

FeatherBox  comprises a commercial off the shelf computing module integrated with Exo-Space's rad-tolerant motherboard. The device is a fully-integrated Linux system, designed to accelerate machine learning algorithms. FeatherBox leverages the fastest, most power efficient computer products on the market while also maintaining the reliability needed for space applications.

Protection against the harsh environment of space

Structural shielding to minimize total ionizing dose and single event effects

Multiple software and hardware redundancies and mitigations 

Voltage and current monitoring with automatic power cycle capabilities

APPLICATIONS

  • Earth Observation Image Processing

 

  • Autonomous Satellite Operations

 

  • Cloud Computing

 

  • Space Situational Awareness

 

  • Data Storage, Compression, and Encryption

 

  • Synthetic Aperture Radar

Technical Specifications

Interfaces

Connector

Micro-D

Ethernet

Data rates up to 1000 Mbps

USB 3.1 Gen. 1

Data rates up to 5 Gbps

2x UART RS-422

Data rates up to 5 Mbps

2x SPI

Data rates up to 52 Mbps

2x I2C

Data rates up to 400 Kbps

8x GPIO

3.3 V

Non-Standard

Additional interfaces/protocols upon request: SpaceWire, CAN, etc

Properties

Mass

1.4 kg

Size

96 mm x 96 mm x 50 mm

Power Supply

5V

Power Consumption

Operating Temperature

3W idle, 7.5 W typical, 22 W peak (tens of microseconds)

-25 °C to +85 °C

Storage Temperature

-40 °C to +85 °C

Software

Operating System

Linux based

AI/ML Model Type

TensorFlow Lite

Software Package

Basic software package included

Performance

CPU

Quad Cortex-A53

GPU

2D/3D Vivante GC7000 Lite GPU and VPU

ML Accelerator

Coprocessor: 4 TOPS

RAM

4GB LPDDR4 SDRAM

Storage

40GB SLC NAND Flash (EDAC)

16GB eMMC

CORE ADVANTAGES

Compact and Powerful

Powerful machine vision processor and AI accelerator inside a compact 0.5U enclosure. 

Custom structural shielding, and error detection and correction codes (EDAC) to protect against the effects of space radiation. 

Mission Safety

Simple mechanical and thermal interfaces for easy plug-and-play integration.

Plug and Play

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