LOCC: Enabling the Characterization of On-Orbit III-V Nitride-based LEDs
Abstract
Over the past decade, trends have shown a substantial growth of interest for small satellite solutions, ranging from earth-orbit imaging to cheap global communication networks. Along with space-based applications, several research missions are focused on testing novel sensors and materials, group III-V nitride semiconductors being among them. Small satellite missions provide a unique opportunity to gain an understanding of the reliability and operational characteristics of these materials when exposed to the harsh environment of space. Such insight will lead to unique space applications of these materials in larger missions. While the nature of electronic and optoelectronic devices involving III-V materials under the bombardment of ionizing radiation has been reported, these findings have mostly been established via controlled tests in terrestrial laboratories.
In this work, a Low-powered Optoelectronic Characterizer for CubeSat (LOCC) has been developed to perform in-situ current-voltage measurements of III-V nitride based optoelectronic devices on-orbit. Lastly, it is important to note the use of III-V nitride materials in this experiment. Custom InGaN LEDs have been fabricated with a center emission wavelength of 465 nm The LOCC system includes a spectral confirmation module that is used for luminescence characterization of the devices. While most current-voltage measurement instruments are made for laboratory benches and consume higher amounts of power, this system is designed using low-power integrated circuits that are capable of supplying the necessary current while maintaining low-power operation. The system must also operate within the data transfer and storage limitations of the CubeSat platform. LOCC is designed to transmit the experimental results to the satellite’s controlling computer via an I2C bus. The characteristics of low-power consumption and small information storage requirements make LOCC an excellent match for this science mission.
This paper details the design and control of the LOCC system. The design includes block diagrams, PCB layout, interfacing, and control. Additionally, the resulting current-voltage measurements, required wattage, and required data storage will be presented to illustrate functionality. This instrumentation will enable the study of III-V nitride based optoelectronic devices in space, as well as parallel advancements of electronics and optical sensors that can be used for short-distance range finding and shape rendering systems for satellite servicing missions.
LOCC: Enabling the Characterization of On-Orbit III-V Nitride-based LEDs
Over the past decade, trends have shown a substantial growth of interest for small satellite solutions, ranging from earth-orbit imaging to cheap global communication networks. Along with space-based applications, several research missions are focused on testing novel sensors and materials, group III-V nitride semiconductors being among them. Small satellite missions provide a unique opportunity to gain an understanding of the reliability and operational characteristics of these materials when exposed to the harsh environment of space. Such insight will lead to unique space applications of these materials in larger missions. While the nature of electronic and optoelectronic devices involving III-V materials under the bombardment of ionizing radiation has been reported, these findings have mostly been established via controlled tests in terrestrial laboratories.
In this work, a Low-powered Optoelectronic Characterizer for CubeSat (LOCC) has been developed to perform in-situ current-voltage measurements of III-V nitride based optoelectronic devices on-orbit. Lastly, it is important to note the use of III-V nitride materials in this experiment. Custom InGaN LEDs have been fabricated with a center emission wavelength of 465 nm The LOCC system includes a spectral confirmation module that is used for luminescence characterization of the devices. While most current-voltage measurement instruments are made for laboratory benches and consume higher amounts of power, this system is designed using low-power integrated circuits that are capable of supplying the necessary current while maintaining low-power operation. The system must also operate within the data transfer and storage limitations of the CubeSat platform. LOCC is designed to transmit the experimental results to the satellite’s controlling computer via an I2C bus. The characteristics of low-power consumption and small information storage requirements make LOCC an excellent match for this science mission.
This paper details the design and control of the LOCC system. The design includes block diagrams, PCB layout, interfacing, and control. Additionally, the resulting current-voltage measurements, required wattage, and required data storage will be presented to illustrate functionality. This instrumentation will enable the study of III-V nitride based optoelectronic devices in space, as well as parallel advancements of electronics and optical sensors that can be used for short-distance range finding and shape rendering systems for satellite servicing missions.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/smallsat/2016/Poster3/3
