Their strongest design uses static random-access memory, or SRAM, and could reduce computing power from about 3,000 watts for a conventional GPU-based system to just 51 watts. Lower computing power means smaller solar panels, batteries and cooling systems, reducing the overall mass of a spacecraft. The problem is not simply a lack of computing power. Memory moves drive costs “The key insight of our research is that future space missions don’t just need more computing power; they need the right kind of computing power. Less power means lighter spacecraft The SRAM design initially reduced power demand to 90 watts.