Speaker: John Carr, Scientist at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
Title: Electronics for Space Applications
Abstract: Electronic devices for space applications present some unique problems, among them radiation effects on the performance of semiconductor devices, temperature cycling between extreme temperatures, failure of solder joints etc. while keeping the weight to a minimum. In spite of these problems, the satellites and space probes have to last for many decades without intervention from earth – think of the probes for monitoring the moons of Jupiter or probe for Mercury). These problems offer a unique opportunity to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions that can stand the extreme conditions and perform for decades. In this talk, I will address some of the challenges that device designers face, some of the solutions, and the extensive testing that is performed before any space probe or satellite is launched.
Bio: Dr. Carr obtained his B.S. and Ph.D. degrees from Iowa State’s Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering. His thesis was on organic solar cells. Since graduation, he has been working at NASA MSFC as a scientist involved in developing solar panels for space applications.