Radiation Analysis of HR Electro-Optical Satellite

Abstract

Radiation is a critical factor for spacecrafts. In some parts of the Earth's orbit, like South Atlantic region, radiation dose can reach high levels and cause damage on electronic systems of satellites. Space radiation environment contains protons and heavy ions which are produced by energetic solar events, galactic cosmic rays and trapped particles. When the satellites are exposed to this environment, some deteriorations and effects are observed in the subsystems. The radiation effects are classified as- Cumulative effects, which are Total Ionizing Dose (TID)and Displacement Damage (DD), and Single Event Effects (SEEs). TID and DD show gradual changes, while SEEs cause transient or permanent effect on electrical circuits. A better understanding of the interaction of the satellite with the space environment, utilizing simulation tools is essential to gain overview of satellite resistance. This paper puts forth radiation analysis of High-Resolution (HR)electro-optical satellite in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The radiation environment is specified using OMERE [1] and its effects on subsystems are simulated with FASTRAD [2]. Also, it includes characteristics of the space environment and their effects on satellites.