Compact Type I Space Encryption Hardware

ABSTRACT: There are a number of ongoing initiatives to develop smaller satellites that provide less expensive solutions in a more timely fashion compared to traditional spacecraft development while reducing the barrier-to-entry for participation in the space industry. The Office of Responsive Space, ORS, plans to use Plug-n-Play satellites and/or Micro-satellites to provide highly responsive space borne capabilities. These satellites must will be deployed expeditiously to support the DoD users who need real-time space support. The DARPA F6 is developing fractionated satellite architecture to demonstrate the feasibility of replacing traditional monolithic satellites with a cluster of wirelessly-interconnected modules capable of sharing their resources and utilizing resources found elsewhere in the cluster. A common requirement of these systems is the need for reducing the size, weight and power footprint of the National Security Agency (NSA) Type 1 End Cryptographic Units (ECUs). Aeronix proposes to develop a stand alone certifiable ECUs capable of supporting multiple encryption/decryption channels at 100 megabits/sec in less than 250-mW and within a 70x70x12.5-mm envelope. The ECU will have standard interfaces to enable satellite integrators to easily incorporate the ECU into their satellite system. The architecture will be designed to be NSA type 1 certified. A Radiation Tolerant/Hardened ASIC will integrates all the cryptographic functions into a single device and be able withstand the rigors of space environment. This Compact Space Crypto (CSC) ASIC will be comprised of an AES cryptographic engine and on board micro-controller to perform the key management and cryptographic configuration and status responsibilities. BENEFIT: The space crypto technology developed under this SBIR benefits the emerging class of smaller satellites in the commercial community as well as the needs of the DoD operationally responsive space intitiative.