Authors:

Isabella Virginia Levine

Date Created:

Not specified

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About Paper:

Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory devices (EEPROMs) store critical data in spacecraft; however, they face significant challenges in the harsh space environment, notably from radiation damage. While past research has explored the effects of certain radiation types like protons, electrons, and gamma rays, the impact of heavy ions from cosmic rays remains uncertain. This study aims to investigate the reliability and memory of EEPROMs under such radiation using Purdue University's Rare Isotope Measurement Laboratory (PRIME) and its accelerator mass spectrometer. An accelerator mass spectrometer aims to speed ions to highly high kinetic energies, creating a radiation field. By subjecting EEPROMs to diverging heavy ion beams at varying radiation doses, we seek to understand their response over time and identify critical dose thresholds. Through this analysis, we aim to determine which nuclei pose the greatest threat to EEPROM functionality aboard spacecraft, informing strategies for radiation protection. The outcomes of this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of EEPROM behavior in dynamic space environments and provide insights into mitigating radiation-induced damage in spacecraft systems. Ultimately, this knowledge will be crucial for ensuring the integrity and functionality of critical electronics during extended space missions. Keywords: Radiation; Microelectronics; Space; EEPROM; Radioisotopes

Source:

Purdue University / 2024

Topics:

No topics listed

Co-authors:

Isabella Virginia Levine