Design of Space-Hardened Electronics in a Multispectral Imager for Lunar Rover Applications
Abstract
Spacecraft instrumentation is important in a variety of applications ranging from Earth observation to planetary surface investigation. Outside the Earth’s atmosphere, spacecraft instrumentation is subject to harsh conditions arising from high-energy radiation and vast temperature swings. If not designed to withstand these conditions, electronic components can fail and result in the loss of an instrument or mission. Recently, a novel Dual-Sensor Multi-Spectral Imager (DS-MSI) instrument for rover applications was built at Western University with funding from the CSA, and can capture images over a wide range of wavelengths (400nm-1550nm). The next step is to adapt the design and fabricate a space-rated instrument suitable for the lunar environment. In this thesis the feasibility of the DS-MSI in lunar geological exploration was demonstrated. Next, the lunar environment was examined and electronic design guidelines for risks and mitigation methods proposed. Finally, a space-hardened system architecture suitable for the lunar surface was developed.