RTS Blog

The space environment is one in which there is an abundance of high-energy particles. Consequently, electronics used in space are exposed to what’s called a total ionizing dose or TID.

The effects of total ionizing dose on electronic devices are critically important to technology manufacturers and any stakeholders that rely on their equipment. Malfunction or failure of equipment as a result of TID can not only jeopardize a mission, it can put lives at risk on manned missions.

One of the many considerations for companies that manufacture electronics components and electronics devices—as well as the organizations that use these products for aerospace applications—is how they will be affected by interactions with high-energy particles. What are called single event effects (SEEs) occur when a single, energetic particle collides with an electronic component or device and causes a change to it.

High radiation doses have the potential to adversely affect electrical devices used in satellites, space probes, rockets, landers and other equipment. The effects of ionizing radiation on integrated circuits and other components can range from temporary malfunctions to permanent damage. In some cases, radiation damage is caused by a high-energy burst. In others, equipment suffers from cumulative radiation damage and the gradual degradation of micro-electronics.

When a device has to function effectively in the unforgiving environment of space, and in order to get there must endure the stresses associated with a rocket launch, it is critical that it has been thoroughly assessed and deemed fit for the mission.

For companies that produce anything from simple devices to complex systems that are used in Earth’s orbit and beyond, it is critical to have an understanding of the radiation in space. The Earth is protected from much of that radiation thanks to its atmosphere and magnetic field. Unfortunately, spacecraft don’t enjoy those same protections once they leave the planet.

In order to prevent damage to technology used in space environments, it is critical to understand and account for space radiation effects on electronics. For stakeholders in the manufacture, launching, and operation of satellites in particular, a knowledge of how to protect a vehicle from satellite radiation effects is vital.

For companies and organizations in the space industry, being able to protect integrated circuits from radiation damage is a major focus. The ionizing radiation effects that integrated circuits experience cover the spectrum from minor to destructive. Key to protecting equipment on spacecraft is understanding how radiation interacts with integrated circuits.