Introduction
India’s space tech is advancing fast. IIT Madras and ISRO have created IRIS, a cutting-edge microprocessor under the Shakti series.
This RISC-V-based chip delivers high efficiency and fault tolerance, making it ideal for space missions.
Foreign semiconductor dependence has long been a challenge. With IRIS, India takes a bold step toward self-reliance in space computing.
The chip powers command and control systems, ensuring smooth and secure spacecraft operations.
This innovation marks a new era for India’s semiconductor and space industries.
Key Takeaways:
India’s Space Tech Gets a Boost – IIT Madras and ISRO developed IRIS, a high-performance microprocessor for space missions.
Fully Indigenous Innovation – The chip was designed, fabricated, and assembled in India, reducing dependence on foreign semiconductors.
Built for Extreme Conditions – IRIS features fault-tolerant memory, CORDIC modules, and WATCHDOG timers, ensuring reliability in space.
Powered by RISC-V – The open-source RISC-V architecture gives India more control over chip design and security.
Strengthening the Semiconductor Ecosystem – This milestone aligns with India’s goal of building a self-sufficient chip industry.
Future Space Applications – IRIS will enhance command and control systems in upcoming ISRO missions.
https://www.yolegroup.com/product/report/overview-of-the-semiconductor-devices-industry-h1-2025
What is IRIS?
IRIS (ISRO Radiation-Hardened Indigenous System-on-Chip) is a radiation-hardened microprocessor designed for space applications.
It is a key part of India’s efforts to develop mission-critical semiconductor technology.
Why IRIS Matters for India’s Space Program
1. Breaking Free from Semiconductor Dependence
Semiconductors are at the heart of modern technology, from consumer electronics to advanced space systems.
However, India has traditionally relied on imports for high-end chips, especially for mission-critical applications.
The IRIS chip is a major milestone in India’s goal to build an indigenous semiconductor ecosystem, reducing dependence on foreign technology while enhancing national security in space missions.
techovedas.com/is-sk-hynix-ready-to-close-intels-nand-acquisition
2. Built for Space: Fault-Tolerant and Customizable
Unlike standard commercial processors, space-grade chips need to function under extreme conditions, including high radiation, extreme temperatures, and zero gravity.
The IRIS chip is specifically designed for such challenges, featuring:
Fault-tolerant internal memories to prevent data corruption in space environments.
Custom modules like CORDIC (Coordinate Rotation Digital Computer) for efficient mathematical computations in navigation and guidance systems.
WATCHDOG Timers to ensure system stability and automatic recovery from unexpected software failures.
These features make IRIS a robust and reliable processor for space applications, particularly in command-and-control systems and other critical space functions.
techovedas.com/top-5-risc-v-companies-strengths-and-moats
The Role of the Shakti Project
The Shakti project at IIT Madras, led by Prof. V. Kamakoti, has been a key initiative in India’s efforts to develop indigenous customizable processors.
Launched in 2016, the project aims to build a family of microprocessors for various applications, including consumer electronics, defense, and space technology.
The IRIS chip represents a significant collaboration between academia and industry, demonstrating how research institutions can contribute to India’s technological advancements.
It is an example of how India is moving towards self-reliance in semiconductor technology, a sector that is currently dominated by a few global players.
The Growing Importance of RISC-V in India
One of the most interesting aspects of the IRIS chip is its foundation on RISC-V, an open-source Instruction Set Architecture (ISA).
RISC-V has gained popularity worldwide as a cost-effective and flexible alternative to proprietary ISAs-like ARM and x86.
By adopting RISC-V, India is positioning itself as a leader in the open-source hardware movement, allowing greater control over processor design and implementation.
This is particularly important for national security, where dependence on foreign-designed chips could pose cybersecurity risks.
What This Means for India’s Semiconductor Industry
The successful development of IRIS is not just about space technology; it signals India’s entry into advanced semiconductor design and manufacturing.
The entire development process—from chip design to software booting—was completed within the country, showing India’s ability to create a self-sufficient semiconductor ecosystem.
This achievement is in line with India’s broader goals under the Semiconductor Mission, which aims to establish India as a global hub for chip manufacturing.
With the government investing heavily in semiconductor fabs and R&D, homegrown chip innovations like IRIS will play a crucial role in strengthening India’s position in the global chip industry.
The Future of Indigenous Space Tech in India
India’s space program has been growing rapidly, with recent successes such as Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1.
The development of IRIS and other indigenous technologies will further enhance ISRO’s capabilities in deep space missions, interplanetary exploration, and satellite technology.
Looking ahead, we can expect:
More advanced versions of the IRIS chip for next-generation space applications.
- Integration of Shakti processors in satellites and spacecraft, reducing reliance on imported components.
- Stronger collaborations between research institutions, ISRO, and the semiconductor industry, driving further innovation.
/techovedas.com/is-sk-hynix-ready-to-close-intels-nand-acquisition
Conclusion
The IRIS chip is a historic step for India’s space and semiconductor industries.
By developing a fully indigenous, space-grade processor, IIT Madras and ISRO have demonstrated India’s growing self-reliance in cutting-edge technology.
This achievement not only boosts India’s space program but also lays the foundation for a stronger domestic semiconductor ecosystem.
With initiatives like the Shakti project and the growing adoption of RISC-V, India is well on its way to becoming a global leader in semiconductor and space technology.
.
