SPHERICAL: High-Performance Satellite Power Systems Powered by Agile Semiconductor Design

The reliability of satellite components is critical: one third of small satellites fail prematurely, resulting in significant economic losses and increased space debris.

SPHERICAL introduces a breakthrough approach to satellite power systems. It is based on a proprietary agile semiconductor engine, software tool and supply chain. The company’s approach significantly improves the reliability and performance of Power Control and Distribution Units (PCDUs) by designing microchips specifically for satellite applications in-house and manufacturing them in Europe. As the company expands, it aims to cover a wider range of satellite subsystems and eventually offer a complete avionics module for medium satellites.

As well as revolutionising satellite subsystem technology, SPHERICAL aims to reduce Europe’s dependence on non-European sources of semiconductors, thereby strengthening its strategic autonomy in the aerospace sector. The company’s technology is capable of setting new industry standards for in-space power systems, improving the longevity, robustness and economics of satellite missions.

Benefits:

• A PCDU subsystem that is 5x smaller, more affordable and better suited for mass-production compared to conventional power systems, with the added benefit of being software configurable and radiation tolerant for different orbital environments (LEO, MEO, GEO).
• The advanced PCDU promises shorter integration times for satellite systems – days instead of months – and reduces one-off development costs by over €200,000.
• The innovative design allows for rapid configuration changes and system updates via software – a capability not currently available in the market.
• SPHERICAL is at the forefront of strengthening European sovereignty in space while addressing the global challenge of microchip dependency.