The data processing unit within the framework of the Intershock project is a general-purpose computer modified to be installed onboard the satellite. The instrument inputs have analog digital and impulse sensors. it generates digital arrays to be stored in a
long-time memory (LTM). The data processing unit´s operations are functionally determined by programs stored in the processor memory. In this specific case the instrument is intended for a comprehensive study of the structure of shock waves in the space plasma. The instrument has a reprogramming system which can make onflight changes in the instrument´s scheduled operations so that the instrument can solve a different problem which conforms with the instrument capabilities and the software used.