Next-Gen Command and Data Handling Platform Advanced by Sidus Space
Modular OpenVPX Architecture Targets Scalable, Mission-Ready Performance for Space and Defense
A next-generation Command and Data Handling system built for the demands of modern space and defense missions has advanced through a strategic collaboration between Sidus Space and Microchip Technology. The Cape Canaveral, Florida-based company announced continued development of its Fortis C&DH platform, a modular 3U OpenVPX system designed for rapid deployment, configuration flexibility, and long-term scalability across a broad range of operational environments.
“This approach strengthens Sidus’ position across commercial and government space and defense markets.”
Carol Craig, Sidus Space
The Fortis platform is built on a 3U OpenVPX architecture and aligned with two key open standards frameworks: the Sensor Open System Architecture (SOSA) and the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). Together, these standards are intended to facilitate interoperability, reduce integration complexity, and support the platform’s evolution across multiple mission domains — including space, airborne, maritime, and terrestrial applications.
“Fortis reflects our strategy to deliver scalable platforms that evolve with customer needs,” said Carol Craig, Founder and CEO of Sidus Space. “This approach strengthens Sidus’ position across commercial and government space and defense markets.”
At the core of the Fortis architecture are Microchip Technology components selected for their flight heritage and reliability in high-demand environments. Integrated solutions include PolarFire FPGAs, space- and defense-grade processors, precision timing modules, and high-reliability networking components. The combination is designed to deliver predictable performance, power efficiency, and a robust security posture suited for contested and remote operational conditions.
The platform also features dedicated Single-Board Computer (SBC) and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) modules engineered to enable secure, high-throughput edge processing. These modules are core to the Fortis architecture and are intended to support long-term system expansion under SOSA/MOSA compliance requirements.
Fortis integrates radiation-tolerant processing and high-speed data interfaces, and supports modular payload configuration — capabilities intended to enable resilient mission operations across diverse and evolving mission requirements. By working with Microchip Technology, Sidus Space aims to leverage flight-proven, space-grade components to accelerate the transition from design to mission-ready system architectures.
The development of Fortis draws on operational experience accumulated through three LizzieSat satellite missions that Sidus Space designed, built, and operates. Data from those missions has informed system performance parameters, data throughput requirements, and multi-sensor integration strategies embedded in the Fortis design.
The Microchip collaboration is intended to reduce integration complexity and accelerate system development by incorporating components that carry established space and defense pedigrees, shortening the path from development to operational readiness.
Sidus Space is headquartered on Florida’s Space Coast and operates a 35,000-square-foot manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing facility. The company is listed on the Nasdaq exchange under the ticker symbol SIDU.