  Due to advances in observation and imaging technologies, modern astronomical
satellites generate large volumes of data. This necessitates efficient onboard
data processing and high-speed data downlink. Reflecting this trend is the
VERTECS 6U Astronomical Nanosatellite. Designed for the observation of
Extragalactic Background Light (EBL), this mission is expected to generate a
substantial amount of image data, particularly within the confines of CubeSat
capabilities. This paper introduces the VERTECS Camera Control Board (CCB), an
open-source payload interface board leveraging Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS)
components, with a Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 at its core. The VERTECS CCB
hardware and software have been designed from the ground up to serve as the
sole interface between the VERTECS bus system and astronomical imaging payload,
while providing compute capability not usually seen in nanosatellites of this
class. Responsible for mission data processing, it will facilitate high-speed
data transfer from the imaging payload via gigabit Ethernet, while also
providing a high-bitrate serial connection to the payload X-band transmitter
for mission data downlink. Additional interfaces for secondary payloads are
provided via USB-C and standard 15-pin camera connectors. The Raspberry Pi
embedded within the VERTECS CCB operates on a standard Linux distribution,
streamlining the software development process. Beyond addressing the current
mission's payload control and data handling requirements, the CCB sets the
stage for future missions with heightened data demands. Furthermore, it
supports the adoption of machine learning and other compute-intensive
applications in orbit. This paper delves into the development of the VERTECS
CCB, offering insights into the design and validation of this next-generation
payload interface, to ensure that it can survive the rigors of space flight.
