Electronic Components for Space Instrumentation

The advent of the space age has placed unique requirements on the design and application of electronic components. Not only has a rigorous environment been imposed on components, but the system demands have often exceeded the state of the art of component development. From all indications these system demands will greatly increase over the next few years. This paper briefly describes some of the Research and Development programs which have been accomplished at USA-SRDL in meeting the space age system and environmental requirements. Based on future system requirements, some programs now in existence, as well as some which are planned, are discussed, and some general conclusions are presented on the work that must be done if the proper electronic components are to be available when needed.