Frontgrade Gaisler is set to spearhead an ambitious project in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) to secure Europe’s sovereignty in the development of advanced semiconductor technologies for space applications. Under the newly signed contract, the company will lead efforts to develop cutting-edge integrated circuits for space, employing Ultra Deep Sub-Micron (UDSM) nodes, including state-of-the-art 7nm technologies.
This project forms part of the ESA’s “EEE Space Component Sovereignty for Europe” initiative, which aims to strengthen Europe’s technological capabilities in the rapidly evolving space sector. The initiative will see Frontgrade Gaisler work alongside key industry partners, including imec (Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre) and IMST GmbH, to develop high-performance microprocessors and advanced semiconductor libraries. These advancements are designed to meet the growing demands of space computing, which requires enhanced performance and reliability for both satellite constellations and deep-space exploration missions.
“ESA is proud to support this groundbreaking initiative, which represents a critical step toward European sovereignty in advanced semiconductor technologies for space,” said Boris Glass, Technical Officer at ESA. He added, “By investing in Ultra Deep Sub-Micron processes such as 7 nm FinFET CMOS technology, we are ensuring that Europe remains at the forefront of space innovation and autonomy.”
One of the primary focuses of the project will be the development of radiation-hardened libraries and Intellectual Property (IP) cores. These will form the foundation for highly reliable UDSM-based integrated circuits capable of operating in the harsh conditions of space. As the project progresses, an advanced RISC-V microprocessor prototype will be developed, tested for performance, and assessed for its radiation resilience.
The ultimate goal is to further refine and qualify this microprocessor, providing Europe with autonomous, high-performance computing capabilities for space applications. This technology is expected to play a crucial role in enabling advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and edge computing, essential for the success of next-generation satellite constellations and ambitious deep-space missions.
Sandi Habinc, General Manager at Frontgrade Gaisler, expressed confidence in the company’s ability to lead this important initiative. “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,” Habinc said. “Through this program, we’re leveraging our expertise – along with the other participants – to advance UDSM technology and to strengthen our position in this industry.”
The project will also focus on incorporating innovative technologies from partner organisations, including high-speed serial interfaces, die-to-die interconnects, and System-in-Package concepts. These efforts are crucial for meeting the growing demands for high-speed data transmission and reliable space-based computing.
With its extensive history of supplying space-grade semiconductor products, Frontgrade Gaisler is well-positioned to lead the charge in developing next-generation space technology. By advancing UDSM-based integrated circuits, the company is paving the way for future innovations that will have far-reaching implications for space exploration and satellite operations, ensuring that Europe remains a competitive force in the global space industry. For more information, visit www.frontgrade.com.
