Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space, a rising star in space technology, has announced an exciting new partnership with Singaporean semiconductor company ZES. This collaboration aims to significantly upgrade Dhruva Space’s onboard computer (OBC) subsystem, a critical component responsible for managing satellite operations and payload controls.
The integration will see ZES’s cutting-edge semiconductor technology, LDAP-IC-ZES100, incorporated into Dhruva Space’s OBC subsystem. This advanced technology is designed to shield electronics from the harsh effects of space radiation, which can cause performance issues and damage over time. By enhancing the reliability and processing power of the onboard computers, Dhruva Space aims to set new standards in satellite technology.
Space presents a challenging environment for satellite electronics. Cosmic rays and solar flares emit high-energy particles that can interfere with electronic components. One significant issue is single-event latch-up (SEL), where these particles trigger a latch-up condition, causing a short circuit in the electronics. This can lead to malfunctions or damage, potentially jeopardizing the satellite’s mission.
ZES’s LDAP-IC-ZES100 technology addresses this challenge by providing advanced protection against radiation-induced SEL. It can detect early signs of potential problems and manage power to prevent damage, even from prolonged exposure to space radiation. This innovative approach will greatly enhance the durability and functionality of Dhruva Space’s satellites.
The upgraded OBC subsystem will not only improve reliability but also expand the range of missions Dhruva Space can undertake. With the new technology, the onboard computers will support a variety of mission profiles, including Earth observation, communication payloads, and scientific experiments. This flexibility is crucial for adapting to different mission requirements and achieving diverse objectives in space.
Abhay Egoor, co-founder and CTO of Dhruva Space, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He highlighted that integrating ZES’s technology represents a significant leap forward for the company. “We are particularly excited about how ZES’s technology will enhance our capabilities for our upcoming series of hosted payload missions, with three launches already in the pipeline,” Egoor said.
Gundala Niranjan, VP of Business Development and Strategy at ZES, also shared his excitement about the collaboration. He noted that the upgraded reliability of the OBC subsystem would contribute to a longer orbital lifetime for satellites. This improvement aligns with the broader goal of making space missions more sustainable and efficient.
Dhruva Space, known for designing and developing in-house satellite systems, continues to push the boundaries of space technology. The company’s expertise extends to creating sophisticated satellite subsystems such as the OBC, electric power system (EPS), attitude determination control system (ADCS), and space-grade solar arrays. The partnership with ZES is set to further enhance these systems, solidifying Dhruva Space’s position as a leader in the space industry.
As Dhruva Space moves forward with this exciting partnership, the company is poised to achieve new milestones in satellite technology. The integration of ZES’s advanced semiconductors promises to bring unprecedented reliability and performance to Dhruva Space’s satellites, supporting a wide range of missions and contributing to the long-term sustainability of space exploration.
With their upcoming launches and the continued development of innovative technologies, Dhruva Space is setting new benchmarks for the space industry.
