The selection of rad-hard components is a critical step in designing space electronics.
Space radiation can degrade or destroy conventional parts. This guide explains how to identify and select the best components to ensure mission success.
Understanding radiation effects in space
Radiation types in space include high-energy protons, electrons, and heavy ions, leading to:
Single-Event Effects (SEE
- Caused by single particles disrupting electronic function
- Includes:
- SEU (Single Event Upset)
- SEL (Latch-Up)
- Gate ruptures
- Can result in transient or permanent damage
Total Ionizing Dose (TID)
- Cumulative radiation damage over time
- Affects semiconductors by degrading insulation and increasing leakage current
Selecting components resilient to both SEE and TID is vital for mission reliability.
Key considerations when selecting Rad-Hard components
Radiation Tolerance
- Ensure TID/SEE ratings match the mission profile
- Examples:
- LEO = lower TID needs
- Deep space/GEO = high TID & SEE resilience
- Verify SEE data with respect to expected particle environments
Reliability and Redundancy
- Choose vendors with flight-proven records
- Use redundant architectures:
- Error correction
- Watchdog timers
- Parallel components
Types of rad-hard components
Radiation-Hardened by Design (RHBD)
- Special circuit design & layout for inherent radiation immunity
Radiation-Hardened by Process (RHBP)
- Manufacturing with radiation-resistant materials (e.g., SOI)
- Often better performance, but more expensive
Commercial-Off-The–Shelf (COTS)
- High-reliability COTS modified and tested for radiation
- Suitable for lower-risk or cost-sensitive missions
Testing and Certification: Ensuring Component Suitability
Qualified to Industry Standards
- Look for compliance with:
- MIL-STD-883
- ECSS-Q-ST-60-15C (ESA)
Flight Heritage
- Proven performance in past space missions = higher confidence
In-House Radiation Testing
- For unqualified components:
- Simulate actual mission profile
- Validate behavior under real-world radiation scenarios
Conclusion
The success of a space mission relies on the resilience of its electronics.
By understanding:
- Radiation threats
- Component certification
- Selection strategies
…you can confidently choose the best radiation-hardened components for your project.
Tip:
Work closely with manufacturers and radiation experts to align every component with your mission’s technical and environmental needs.
