Model and Testing Based Assurance of COTS Systems in Space Radiation Environments

Alphacore, with their research partner Vanderbilt University, propose innovative strategies based on a complete system analysis of High Performance Computing (HPC) Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) parts. The use of COTS in space for electronics is a potential significant enabler for many capabilities during a mission. This STTR project will provide a better understanding of the feasibility of COTS electronics for HPC in space environments which are already heavily shielded. The proposed strategies include, but are not limited to, failure modes to mitigate radiation induced impacts to potential HPC systems in those highly shielded space environments, such as manned missions and human habitats.The methodology includes modeling for an appropriate space relevant environment, plus testing in an appropriate space relevant environment (e.g., in particle beams). Further, since all parts in such HPC systems cannot be tested, we will develop a method for understanding of what parts are susceptible to radiation damage, which is crucial to create the list of potential test candidates.In Phase I, the Alphacore + Vanderbilt team will develop a plan/strategy explaining a detailed approach solving the problem that helps NASA mitigate radiation induced failures in the HPC system/components, identify COTS equipment that are likely candidates based on environmentally relevant testing, as well as modeling of interior environment and data analysis of similarly known/used approaches like the Orion vehicle testing (EM-1 when released).An HPC ecosystem is of interest to all major programs in Human Exploration amp; Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) and Science Mission Directorate (SMD). Immediate infusion targets include Mars Fetch Rover, WFIRST/Chronograph, Gateway, SPLICE/Lunar Lander. Desired deliverables with regards to hardware elements include a preliminary detailed design ready for fabrication and productization.