Intel Debuts Starfire Space Processor, Targets Year-End Launch as Satellite AI Demand Rises
Updated
Updated · SpaceNews · Jul 27
Intel Debuts Starfire Space Processor, Targets Year-End Launch as Satellite AI Demand Rises
1 articles · Updated · SpaceNews · Jul 27
Summary
Starfire, Intel’s new space-grade system-on-chip, is still in testing but is expected to reach initial customers by the end of 2026.
Intel built the processor to handle onboard AI and real-time data processing in orbit, where radiation and thermal cycling have long forced satellites to use older, lower-performance chips.
Two versions are planned: a low-power model under 10 watts and a higher-performance variant; Intel expects to complete radiation qualification and characterization before the end of the third quarter.
Intel is also seeking a U.S. government experimental flight later this year and says Starfire will be assembled, screened and qualified domestically to cut supply-chain risk and lead times.
The push places Intel more directly against established space-chip suppliers such as BAE Systems, Microchip and AMD as military and commercial constellations demand more computing onboard.