Radiation Test Group
Radiation effects are probably the most challenging environment in space and must be considered in any type of space mission, be it the development of a simple experimental payload or a reliable and important subsystem for the spacecraft. The use of commercial off the shelf (COTS) components is becoming increasingly important, not only for financial reasons, but mainly because state-of-the-art electronics are more powerful, more efficient and require less power. However, radiation effects on such electronic components are generally not taken into account by their manufacturers, as they are usually developed for industrial or automotive applications, where radiation is not usually of importance. Therefore, characterization under radiation conditions prior to their use in a space mission is essential to ensure reliable use.
When talking about radiation in space, it is usually divided into two categories: (1) Ionized dose rate, which can lead to the degradation of performance parameters or even the complete destruction of electrical components, and (2) particle effects (triggered by protons, electrons or heavy elements), which can cause functional disturbances or even the destruction of the component.
Characterizing the impact of radiation effects is highly complex, time-consuming and costly. This is especially true for high-technology components such as processors, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and integrated systems, as there are many sources of error, making accurate and in-depth characterization difficult. Due to the constant development of new technologies, this situation is particularly aggravating for the preparation and implementation of radiation tests. In addition, the expertise for radiation effects in electronic components and systems is very limited, especially in Germany.
The Institute of Space Systems has taken up this challenge and is leading the way in this field with a specially established specialist group. Primarily driven by its own developments for space systems, in particular avionics (on-board computers, communication systems and power supply systems), DLR regularly conducts such radiation tests. In addition, the specialist group works on various ESA and EU projects and contributes to the continuous expansion of this research area with regular scientific contributions.