Modelling radiation loads to detectors in a SNAP mission

Radiat Prot Dosimetry. 2005;116(1-4 Pt 2):224-7. doi: 10.1093/rpd/nci103.

Abstract

In order to investigate the degradation of optical detectors of the Supernova Acceleration Project (SNAP) space mission because of irradiation, a three-dimensional model of the satellite has been developed. A realistic radiation environment at the satellite orbit, including both galactic cosmic rays and cosmic ray trapped in radiation belts, has been taken into account. The modelling has been performed with the MARS14 Monte Carlo code. In a current design, the main contribution to dose accumulated in the photo-detectors is shown to be due to trapped protons. The contribution of primary alpha particles is estimated. Predicted performance degradation for the photodetector for a four-year space mission is 40% and this can be reduced further by means of shielding optimisation.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Alpha Particles*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Computer-Aided Design*
  • Cosmic Radiation*
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Models, Statistical*
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Radiation Monitoring / instrumentation*
  • Radiation Monitoring / methods
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Spacecraft*
  • Transducers*