This is an interesting look at the role of computers in space. Both the past and even recent days are covered here in this article. A fun read to be sure, I think you will enjoy it.

Spaceships portrayed in the movies have vastly complicated computers running them. Databanks brimming over with the sum knowledge of human (or alien) kind within them. But as we know, life rarely imitates art, and none so more the case as real-life space computing.

Why is it, that at a time where you can go and buy a machine that is several thousands of times more powerful than the sum computing capability of NASA at the time of the Apollo moon shots, does the space industry lob hardware up there that’s only marginally faster than an old 386? Let’s find out. And no, before you ask, it’s not to stop infiltration by attractive looking clones and walking toasters. [Read the rest]