The Reliability of Components in Satellites

The environmental conditions to which space vehicles are subjected place severe stresses on the components and the severity of these special conditions is discussed¿i.e. shock, vibration, acceleration, temperature extremes, low pressure, solar radiation, cosmic rays and x-rays, ozone content of space, dissociated gases, etc. The probable effect of these environments on average components is discussed and hermetic sealing and protection problems are examined. The present programme of ¿special quality¿ components for guided missile use is described and some of its difficulties outlined. The development of high quality components for use in undersea cables for 20 years´ life is also relevant and is described. A summary is given of the most reliable types of components for use in satellites. Finally, the possible effect of micro-miniaturization techniques is discussed and in particular the effect of space environments on solid circuits.