On December 5, 2018 --  NASA has successfully launched the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) Lidar to the International Space Station (ISS).

GEDI is equipped with on board communication between its internal electro-optic Lidar sensors and with a data and control link to the ISS, all done over safe MIL-STD-1553B. The selection of MIL-STD-1553B communication was made due to its robust and real-time fashion along with it’s ability to execute in harsh environments.

100% of GEDI internal and external MIL-STD-1553B links are implemented with the Sital BRM1553ERL FPGA IP Core. The Sital BRM1553ERL is a space grade FPGA IP core qualified by NASA and has specialized built in mechanism to handle harsh radiation environments with direct impact on electronics and memory behavior.

“We are thrilled and honored to help power GEDI’s on board communications and help researching earth’s green lungs”, said Ilan Hayat, VP Business Development and Sales at Sital. “For years NASA has been relaying on Sital’s advanced capabilities in MIL-STD-1553B communication and the being integrated on 100% of GEDI’s modules is a strong vote of confidence. Sital is fully committed to enabling space and earth exploration missions with cutting edge databus communication at affordable prices”

For more info on the GEDI please visit: https://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2019/01/26/star-wars-has-lightsabers-nasa-has-gedi-for-our-forests-and-climate/#3d891983b5e1
For more info on the Sital space qualified 1553 FPGA IP please visit:  https://sitaltech.com/products-main-page/space-grade-1553-ip-cores/