Stories|Advancing Electronics Testing for Reliable Space Missions
Advancing Electronics Testing for Reliable Space Missions
Electronics and energy industry

Standardized Station for High-Energy Heavy Ion Radiation on Electronics: A Leap for Space Mission Reliability
The GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research has established a cutting-edge standardized station for high-energy heavy ion radiation testing, addressing the pressing need for advanced electronics testing under space-like radiation conditions. Supported by a €68,000 budget in 2023, the station accelerates testing processes, allowing for the rapid and precise evaluation of electronics, particularly those critical to space missions.
Key Achievements
The project introduced innovative tools and standardized procedures to improve efficiency and accuracy. Key milestones include:
- Robotic Arm (UR10e): A versatile solution for handling custom-shaped electronic boards and biological samples, validated for operation in ionizing radiation environments.
- Modular Range Shifters: Designed for quick energy adjustments, allowing diverse applications with high precision.
- Target Station (Linear and Rotational Axes): Facilitates precise 2D movement and 1D rotation for flexible sample positioning and irradiation at grazing angles.
- Alignment Lasers and PTZ Cameras: Ensures accurate sample alignment and provides real-time observation during experiments.
These advancements streamline testing, reducing setup times and increasing the number of experiments conducted per session.
Bridging Science and Industry
Traditionally, electronics testing relied on lower-energy ions, which are inadequate for evaluating state-of-the-art 3D electronics and complex systems. This project at GSI is among the first in Europe to offer high-energy ion testing that mirrors Galactic Cosmic Ray (GCR) conditions, eliminating the limitations of lower-energy accelerators. Key benefits include:
- Testing of 3D electronics without the need for de-lidding.
- Capability to evaluate full systems or satellites, overcoming penetration challenges faced by low-energy ions.
- Compatibility with ESA-standard frames, enabling seamless integration for industry partners familiar with other facilities.
These features position GSI as a premier testing facility for the rapidly growing space sector and electronics industries, addressing the increasing demand for high-energy radiation testing.
Future Outlook
With the successful implementation of the robotic arm, range shifters, and the standardized target station, the new equipment will undergo further testing at GSI. These tools will support not only electronics irradiation experiments but also broader applications in biological and space research. As the demand for high-energy ion testing grows, this project ensures GSI remains a leading facility for space mission preparation and advanced electronics validation.
Are you interested in collaborating on High-Energy Heavy Ion Radiation on Electronics? Feel free to contact us at transfer@gsi.de.