Minerva Payload – Modular RF and Onboard Intelligence for Space Missions

Minerva is MWSE’s compact and modular payload platform designed to meet the evolving demands of next-generation missions in communications, Earth observation, with in-orbit processing. Engineered for performance and flexibility, Minerva integrates powerful software-defined radio (SDR) capabilities with AI-ready computing.

At its core, the Main Module features a 2x2 SDR architecture (4 TX / 6 RX channels) operating from 70 MHz to 6 GHz with ~56 MHz bandwidth per channel. Built on the Xilinx MPSoC Ultrascale+, it includes overvoltage, overcurrent, and latch-up protection, an EMI filter, and isolated DC/DC power handling up to 30W. Multiple data interfaces—Ethernet, PCIe 2.0, USB 3.0, SATA, CAN, SPI, UART—make it mission-adaptable, with redundant boot options via SD, eMMC, or QSPI. It uses SMPM and Nano-D connectors for reliable integration.

Minerva supports two key expansion paths:

• RF Expansion: Adds up to two front-end slots with configurable modules, including:

  • Multi-IoT (LoRa, UHF, Iridium)

  • NB-IoT S-band (full duplex)

  • X-band (half duplex)

  • Ka-band NTN (full duplex)

  • Custom RF configurations to extend frequency coverage

• GPU/CPU Expansion: Integrates the NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX (16GB) to enable onboard AI inference and parallel processing. Includes SSD storage and debug access via Ethernet and UART.

Designed for thermal resilience (−40°C to +80°C) and in-orbit reconfigurability, Minerva embodies MWSE’s mission: “Custom RF for your mission.” Whether supporting LEO constellations, technology demonstrators, or 6G NTN testbeds, Minerva delivers a versatile RF and computing payload built for the future of small satellite missions.