NG-ULTRA: A Breakthrough in European Space Electronics for Satellite Constellations

Introduction to NG-ULTRA’s Capabilities and Applications

Milestone Achievement for Europe’s Space Electronics Sector

Meeting the Demands of Next-Generation Satellite Missions

Strengthening Sovereign Supply Chains in Space Technology

Technical Specifications and Resilience of NG-ULTRA

Enhancing Onboard Computing with Innovative Architecture

Providing a Pathway for Future-Proof Space Solutions

Advancing Space Tech: The Launch of NG-ULTRA in Low and Medium-Earth Orbit

In an era where satellite technology is rapidly evolving, the introduction of the NG-ULTRA device marks a pivotal moment for the European space electronics sector. Designed specifically for low- and medium-Earth orbit constellations, this advanced microchip is poised to enhance various satellite systems, including the renowned European flagship programmes like Galileo and Copernicus. Additionally, it holds promise for future applications in the IRIS² secure connectivity initiative.

A Milestone for European Standards

The NG-ULTRA has the honor of being the first product qualified under ESCC 9030, a recently introduced European standard that focuses on high-performance microcircuits. Utilizing innovative flip-chip technology on organic substrates or plastic packaging, this standard aims to provide space-grade reliability. By moving away from traditional ceramic packaging, the industry is gearing up for the demands of higher-volume satellite constellations and next-generation missions.

Thomas Goust, Division General Manager of the Space Division at STMicroelectronics, emphasizes the critical nature of robust and cost-effective chips for space applications. The NG-ULTRA is built to ensure a sovereign supply chain, meeting the stringent requirements of radiation-hardened technologies while adapting to the burgeoning "new space" market.

Meeting Evolving Demands

The NG-ULTRA program is a response to the shifting needs of the space sector. As satellite constellations expand, the demand for increased onboard computing power, controlled energy consumption, and reduced system costs intensifies. By facilitating data processing directly in orbit, this innovative chip minimizes reliance on downlink capacity and alleviates data transmission bottlenecks between satellites and ground stations.

Target applications for the NG-ULTRA include onboard computers, data management, real-time image and video processing, and software-defined radio functions. These capabilities foster enhanced onboard autonomy, empowering spacecraft to undertake tasks such as detection, recognition, and supervision.

Strengthening Sovereignty in Space

At its core, the NG-ULTRA project aims to build a sovereign and sustainable European supply chain supporting long-duration space missions. By distributing design, manufacturing, assembly, and testing across multiple locations in Europe, the initiative reduces reliance on non-European suppliers while ensuring competitiveness and space-grade reliability.

NanoXplore, the driving force behind the NG-ULTRA, operates research and design centers in Paris, Grenoble, and Montpellier. Collaborating closely with STMicroelectronics facilities across Europe, including digital fabrication plants and space-specialist packaging sites, they are creating a strong network of innovation.

Technical Excellence at Its Core

Technically, the NG-ULTRA features an integrated "all-in-one" System on Chip (SoC) architecture, encompassing a multi-core processor and programmable hardware all within a single chip. Built on STMicroelectronics’ cutting-edge 28-nanometre FD-SOI digital technology, it combines a quad-core Arm Cortex-R52 processor with 537,000 logic elements and 32 MB of embedded RAM. This integration not only simplifies electronic board complexity but also reduces system mass and power consumption—critical factors in spacecraft design.

Engineered to endure the harsh conditions of space, the NG-ULTRA can withstand launch vibrations, thermal cycling, and prolonged radiation exposure. Its impressive tolerance ensures it can handle a total ionizing dose of up to 50 krad (Si) and shows resilience to single-event effects, with latch-up immunity tested up to 65 MeV·cm²/mg.

Flexibility and Adaptability

One of the standout features of the NG-ULTRA is its SRAM-based architecture, which allows for in-orbit reconfiguration. This capability enables operators to update functionality post-launch or adapt hardware for different mission phases. To facilitate widespread adoption, an evaluation kit is also available, offering a prototyping platform for early validation and software development ahead of flight hardware production.

Looking Ahead

With the launch of NG-ULTRA, Europe solidifies its position in the evolving landscape of space technology. As satellite constellations expand and missions become more complex, innovations like this will play a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of space systems. The future of space exploration looks promising, driven by robust, cost-optimized solutions like the NG-ULTRA that not only meet today’s challenges but also pave the way for tomorrow’s innovations.