Develop an ultra-low power memristor-based detector for radiation sensing and dosimetry on board satellites

Space radiation environment is considered as a fundamental factor for space system design and operation due to the adverse effects caused by the interaction of ionizing particles with the different electronic components included in such systems. In this work, the use of memristors for ultra-low power radiation detection to monitor the long-term electronic health of satellites is investigated. A memristor-based detector would form an ideal basis for the satellite dosimetry given their low power requirements (in the microwatt range), low weight, compact size and integrated all-electronic readout features. These together allow circumventing a number of challenges in coupling a detector to a satellite probe such as the large costs associated with the payload weight and high power operation. Memristor-based radiation detectors are promising for significantly improving the current state-of-the-art in the on-board and remote satellite dosimetry. In this paper, the synthesis of a Cu/HfO2/Si(heavily-doped) memristor device and its electronic characterization are presented. This is followed by an overview of the simulations and calculations that are developed as part of the validation and verification (VV) process to support the prediction of device response to various relevant radiation exposures; including both laboratory radiation and space radiation conditions. Further, the developed simulation setup can be utilized to explore new materials and geometry for future optimization of the technology.