India Develops Indigenous 32-Bit Microprocessors For Space Missions

India has achieved a significant breakthrough in space technology with the development and deployment of two fully indigenous 32-bit microprocessors VIKRAM3201 and KALPANA3201.

These chips, designed specifically for launch vehicle applications, mark a major step towards self-reliance in critical space electronics.

The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) designed VIKRAM3201, and the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Chandigarh fabricated it using a 180nm CMOS process.

This microprocessor represents a generational leap from its predecessor, the 16-bit VIKRAM1601, which has been in use onboard ISRO’s launch vehicles since 2009.

A completely ‘Make-in-India’ version of the older chip was inducted in 2016 as domestic fabrication capabilities matured.

VIKRAM3201 supports a custom instruction set architecture, features floating-point computation, and offers native high-level language support for Ada.

ISRO has also developed all supporting software tools, including the Ada compiler, simulator, and integrated development environment (IDE).

A C language compiler is currently under development to expand its applications.

KALPANA3201: A Versatile Microprocessor For Avionics

KALPANA3201 is a 32-bit SPARC V8 RISC microprocessor based on the IEEE 1754 Instruction Set Architecture.

It has been designed to work with open-source software toolsets and ISRO’s in-house simulator and IDE.

Flight software testing has confirmed its suitability for future avionics applications.

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On March 5, the first production batches of these microprocessors were officially handed over at a ceremony in New Delhi.

S Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, presented the chips to V Narayanan, Secretary of the Department of Space and Chairman of ISRO.

Along with the microprocessors, ISRO and SCL unveiled four additional devices aimed at miniaturizing launch vehicle avionics.

These included two versions of a RDAS integrating multiple 24-bit Sigma-Delta Analog to Digital Converters on a single chip.

Other developments included a Relay Driver Integrated Circuit and a Multi-Channel Low Drop-out Regulator Integrated Circuit for high-reliability applications.

Strengthening India’s Space Capabilities

With these advancements, India continues to strengthen its position in space technology and reduce dependence on foreign semiconductor components.

These indigenous microprocessors and supporting systems will play a crucial role in future launch vehicle missions, enhancing both performance and reliability.