Sidus Space Advances Development of Fortis Next‑Generation Command and Data Handling System

Sidus Space has announced new progress on its Fortis Command and Data Handling platform, a modular 3U OpenVPX system engineered to support rapid development cycles, configuration flexibility, and long‑term scalability for emerging space and defense missions. The company continues to position Fortis as a mission ready architecture aligned with the growing demand for open standards and modular avionics across government and commercial programs.

Collaboration Supporting OpenVPX and Modular Architectures

The Fortis platform is supported through a collaboration with Microchip Technology, whose space grade and flight proven components are integrated to streamline system development. By incorporating Microchip processors, FPGAs, timing modules, and networking devices, Sidus aims to reduce integration complexity and accelerate transitions from design to operational deployment. The approach allows customers to select commercial or radiation hardened components based on mission assurance needs.

Open Standards and Multi Domain Mission Support

Fortis is built on a 3U OpenVPX architecture and is aligned with Sensor Open System Architecture and Modular Open Systems Approach standards. The system integrates radiation tolerant processing, high speed data interfaces, and modular payload configurations to support resilient operations across space, airborne, maritime, and terrestrial environments. The design incorporates lessons learned from three Sidus operated LizzieSat missions, informing data throughput, processing requirements, and multi sensor integration.

Leadership Perspective on Platform Strategy

Sidus leadership stated that the continued evolution of Fortis reflects the company’s strategy to deliver scalable platforms that adapt to customer requirements across commercial and government markets. The company emphasized that modularity and open standards are central to supporting long term mission growth.

Microchip Technologies Integrated into Fortis

Key Microchip components within the Fortis architecture include PolarFire FPGAs, space and defense grade processors, precision timing solutions, and high reliability networking devices. These technologies support predictable performance, power efficiency, and secure system operation, which are increasingly important for contested and high consequence mission environments.

Expanded Processing and PNT Capabilities

The Fortis platform includes new Single Board Computer and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing modules designed to deliver secure, high throughput edge processing. These modules are core elements of the architecture and support long term scalability under SOSA and MOSA standards, enabling Fortis to serve as a flexible backbone for next generation mission systems.