ETHERNET CONNECTIVITY FOR MID-SIZE SATELLITES EXPRO PLUS

Objective: To evaluate options standardisation around Ethernet, including connectors and software protocols - and to identify enablers for utilisation of Ethernet in mid-size satellites.Description: Mid- and small-size satellite providers increasingly rely on COTS technologies to meet stringent market cost requirements. The use of COTS FPGAs has enabled space-specific command, control, and data interfaces, while COTS processors are increasingly adopted in data handling equipment. These processors typically provide terrestrial electrical interfaces such as Ethernet. Interest in Ethernet for on-board data handling is growing, driven by the availability of new devices and the ability of later Ethernet versions to support very high data rates (up to 100 Gbit/s). Ethernet up to 100 Mbps has already been used successfully in ESA programmes, including human spaceflight, and several initiatives have explored its usein critical applications. However, Ethernet adoption in space raises new challenges: -No standardised or widely accepted flight connector exists for Ethernet (1GbE, 10GbE and above). -Ethernet introduces additional layers in the protocol stack (e.g., UDP/TCP at the transport layer and IP at the network layer). Further work is needed to determine how best to implement and optimise application-layer protocols on top of these. -Many data handling system elements (e.g., payload front-ends) rely on FPGAs, and integrating Ethernet IPs requires additional considerations. This activity addresses the technology gap for end-to-end interoperable 1GbE and higher Ethernet in mid-size satellites and identify elements for standardisation to enhance equipment reusability and strengthen European competitiveness. This activity encompasses the following tasks: - Assess Ethernet flight connector options for 1GbE, 10GbE, and higher rates, considering ESA mission heritage and available connectors. - Assess suitable software application protocols for use with Ethernet and standard stacks, ensuring implementation feasibility in FPGAs, qualified RTOS, and Linux. -Study the availability of EEE components implementing Ethernet building blocks (processors, transceivers, switches, etc.) and derive a roadmap for adoption. -Manufacture, test, and validate Ethernet implementations across different microelectronics options (e.g., processors, FPGAs), identifying performance, integration, and qualification considerations. - Deliver a breadboard setup implementing selected flight connector candidates, software protocols, and EEE/microelectronics components identified above Software shall be delivered under an ESA SoftwareCommunity Licence, so that any individuals or entities within ESA Member States can access it and can provide update to the community of users.Deliverables: Breadboard, Report