Effects on semiconductor devices in the space environment

When using semiconductor devices in outer space, it is necessary to consider the effects of cosmic radiation.

In outer space, radiation such as X-rays and gamma rays electromagnetic waves and consists of particle beams such as protons, electrons, and heavy particles radiation has become an environment where
On the ground, the direct effects of cosmic radiation are small thanks to the atmosphere and geomagnetism, but in outer space, we are directly exposed to cosmic radiation.
The impact is great, and in the past it was said that "semiconductor devices mounted on artificial satellites Failure due to radiation effects There are also cases where

Next, I will explain the effects of the space radiation environment on semiconductor devices.

Space radiation environment that greatly affects semiconductor devices

In outer space, there are three types of space radiation environments that have a significant impact on semiconductor devices.

• A solar flare consisting mainly of protons coming from the Sun
• The Van Allen belts, which are mainly composed of protons and electrons, captured by the Earth's geomagnetic field.
• Galactic cosmic rays composed of high-energy heavy particles from outside the solar system due to supernova explosions, etc.

What are the effects of cosmic radiation in these three environments on semiconductor devices?

When cosmic radiation enters a semiconductor device, it generates electric charges due to its ionization effect.
The charges generated here cause the following phenomena that adversely affect semiconductors.

• TID (Total Ionizing Dose effects)
• SEE (Singe Event Effects)

These phenomena cause problems that should not occur. Semiconductor Device "Characteristics Deterioration or malfunction, damage" This leads to adverse effects such as:
During a satellite or other mission, "how likely is it to occur?" and "how big is the impact if an error does occur?"
Considering the above in advance, Measures must be taken There is.

In the explanation so far, The adverse effects of space radiation on semiconductor devices and the possible consequences『Deterioration of characteristics or malfunction, Damage"
theMeasures are very important Do you understand what is going to happen?

In the next article, we will explain the phenomena that cause such problems, "SEE" and "TID", and "the consequences of the problem"
What will happen? We will be digging deeper into these questions and explaining them in detail. Please look forward to it.