Radiation Effects Research in Finland

In order to assure the reliability of a satellite mission, one important consideration is the inevitable presence of the radiation field in the satellite operating environment. The radiation effects, induced by (1) high energy heavy-ions, (2) protons and (3) electrons, as well as (4) high energy gammas from various sources in the solar system, can dramatically interfere the operation of space systems. In worst cases, the radiation can result in the loss of the whole mission. Radiation effects can be studied by using particle accelerators and other artificial radiation sources already on ground level before launch. The Accelerator Laboratory in the University of Jyväskylä hosts the RADiation Effects Facility, RADEF, that provides energetic particle beams, which are frequently used for radiation hardness assurance testing for the needs of various space projects. Among others, in RADEF’s years of operation, electronic devices used practically in each ESA’s space missions (e.g. BebiColombo, JUICE etc.) designed during that period, have been tested at this facility.