Radiation hardening of COTS components using software techniques

Abstract

The space environment poses several hazardous effects on the electronic components of satellites. High energetic particles coming from the sun and stars can cause data corruption in memories and functional disruption of processors. These are known as Single Event Effects. The common approach to mitigate these risks is utilizing specialized radiation tolerant electronics, which are expensive and less performant when compared to COTS components. This work investigates different software techniques that can be utilized to increase the reliability of COTS components in LEO missions, in concrete Error Detection and Correction Codes. A major contribution of this study is a reference software architecture, for effectively applying a set of high-performant Error Detection and Correction (EDAC) algorithms for protecting the different memories in a satellite. The functional aspects of the proposed architecture have been implemented in a software library, which leverages the semantics of data for achieving a balance between performance and reliability. Additionally, the research presents a novel methodology for profiling the criticality of memory regions concerning Single Event Upsets (SEUs), providing valuable insights into areas that require heightened attention and protection measures. Together, these contributions pave the way for improved memory protection strategies in satellite systems. Finally, the outputs of the investigations and developments are applied to the optical terminal OSIRISv3 as a case study, a LEO mission developed by DLR. In this case study, the software mitigation techniques are implemented and verified via simulations and testing. With this work, the author aims to contribute to the current effort to bring COTS components to space missions, to improve the cost-effectiveness of space systems and contribute to making space more accessible.