12–13 Jun 2024
Visitor Center, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, United Kingdom
Europe/London timezone

Talk 3: What New Space wants from radiation testing facilities

13 Jun 2024, 14:55
20m
Visitor Center, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, United Kingdom

Visitor Center, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, United Kingdom

Speaker

Matthew Gill (SRS) (Space Radiation Services)

Description

Abstract:

New Space companies vary in radiation testing approaches. New ventures prioritize rapid deployment and initial operation phases to secure further funding, while mature companies face customer demands for some level of radiation risk mitigation without the full cost of a "rad hard" approach. There is frustration over the high costs, resource demands, and lack of clear guidelines for short-term missions or less intensive testing options. Companies seek affordable, fast testing facilities with broad capabilities, favoring local options. Future desires include easier access to heavy ion testing, guidance for companies with higher radiation risk tolerance, and standards for both board level and alternative testing methods.

CV:

Former nuclear engineer turned rocket scientist. Matthew has a PhD in nuclear engineering, and previously worked at Apollo Fusion and Astra where he ran a program to fly the world's first permanent magnet hall-effect thruster. Since 2022 Matthew runs Space Radiation Services, a radiation testing and analysis consulting company that specializes in helping New Space companies with a range of radiation topics.

Presentation materials