Code 581 Technologies and Products

A High Performance Onboard Multicore Intelligent Payload Module

Principal Investigator (PI)

• Dan Mandl/Code 581
• Daniel.J.Mandl@nasa.gov

Description and Objectives

• Dramatically improve onboard processing (OBP) capability for high data rate missions, in particular, HyspIRI
  • Utilize Maestro/Tilera and SpaceCube OBP components to raise the TRL for onboard applications via the use of multicore processor technology.
• Demonstrate the Intelligent Payload Module (IPM) end-to-end operations concept for low latency quicklook data products from airborne vehicles
  • Multi-tiered onboard data processing chain
  • Direct download of Level 2 (L2) data products with atmospheric correction and geocorrection based on user selected location, parameters, and algorithms
  • Rapid delivery of data products in near real time

Diagram shows the IPM operations concept for the high-speed multicore onboard processor featuring validation using various airborne platforms.

Technical Approach

• Configure IPM flight package for airborne vehicles such as the B200 and the ER-2

• Exercise the IPM multicore onboard processing software in same configuration as for satellite use
  • Inmarsat transponder for uplink and downlink
  • Core Flight Executive (cFE) for software bus
  • CASPER for planning and scheduling
  • Web Coverage Processing Service (WCPS) for custom onboard algorithms

Main Innovation(s)

• High data rate processing
• Parallel processing, optimization of processing
• Use of the latest Tilera 36-core embedded processing system and software tools

Infusion Potential

• IPM recommendations to HyspIRI Science Study Group
• Most Earth Science Decadal Survey Missions