Components for space applications

The evolution of the requirements for the reliability of spacecraft electronic components and means for assuring them are examined. The space operational environment is reviewed, with attention given to orbital location, mission lifetimes, radiation, thermal cycles, vacuum, habitability (for manned missions), degassing and amagnetism, and means used for adapting space systems to the environment are indicated. Considerations in the reliability design of space electronic components are discussed, and the objectives and guiding principles of the Space Components Coordination Group (SCCG) of ESA, which was created to coordinate the promotion and support the definition and production in Europe of components adapted to space applications are presented. Steps involved in the fabrication of component reliability as overseen by the SCCG are outlined, including those in the evaluation, fabrication and debugging stages, and future directions of reliability assurance for spacecraft electronic components produced in Europe are indicated which rely on the cooperation between the SCCG and the Cenelec Electronic Components Committee.