Master Student Electrical Engineering, Physics, Information Technology or similar (f/m/x) - FPGA-based network switches for satellite communication

The Optical Technologies for Satellite Application group at DLR's Institute of Communications and Navigation develops experimental laser communication systems for optical data links between airborne carriers such as aircraft or satellites and optical ground stations, as well as demonstrator platforms for testbed system verification. 

Future satellite networks will link space and ground assets via an optical network. This not only requires the development of existing technologies that enable optical links in space, but also addresses the challenges of switching high-speed data streams on board satellites.

The recent evolution of FPGA devices has led to a significant increase in high-speed transceiver throughput, making FPGAs a compelling option for implementing network switches in space. However, it remains unclear whether an FPGA-based switch can meet the requirements of future satellite networks. This thesis explores the trade-offs of different switch fabric architectures when considering FPGAs for future space missions.  

Main activities:

• literature review on FPGA-based switch architectures
• develop building blocks for network switches
• analyze FPGA-based switches susceptibility to radiation effects
• evaluate the feasibility of FPGA-based switches