Page 38 - MEMS and Microstructures in Aerospace Applications

Osiander / MEMS and microstructures in Aerospace applications DK3181_c002 Final Proof page 29 1.9.2005 11:50am

Vision for Microtechnology Space Missions 29

light-gas cannon launchers where perhaps thousands of these devices could be
dispensed at once.

2.4 CHALLENGES AND FUTURE NEEDS

In this section, it will be stressed that while some significant advancements are
being made to develop and infuse MEMS technology into space mission applica-
tions, there is much more progress to be made. There are still many challenges,
barriers, and issues (not all technical or technological) yet to be dealt with to fully
exploit the potential of MEMS in space. The following is a brief summary of some
of the key considerations and hurdles to be faced.

2.4.1 CHALLENGES

History tells us that the infusion of new technological capabilities into space
missions will significantly lag behind that of the commercial or the industrial sector.
Space program managers and other decision makers are typically very cautious
about when and where new technology can be infused into their missions. New
technologies are often perceived to add unnecessary mission risk.
Consequently, MEMS technology developers must acknowledge this barrier to
infusion and strive to overcome it by fostering a two-way understanding and interest
in MEMS capabilities with the mission applications community. This motivates the
need, in addition to continually maturing the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of
their device or system, to proactively initiate and maintain continuing outreach with
the potential space mission customers to ensure a clear mutual understanding of
MEMS technology benefits, mission requirements and constraints (in particular the
‘‘Mission Assurance’’ space qualification requirements), risk metrics, and potential
infusion opportunities.

2.4.2 FUTURE NEEDS
It is unlikely that the envisioned proliferation of MEMS into future science and
exploration missions will take place without significant future technological
and engineering investments focused on the unique and demanding space applica-
tions arena. Several specific areas where such investments are needed are suggested
here.
Transitioning MEMS microsystems and devices out of the laboratory and into
operational space systems will not necessarily be straightforward. The overwhelm-
ing majority of current MEMS technology developments have been targeted at
terrestrial, nonspace applications. Consequently, many MEMS researchers have
never had to consider the design implications of having to survive and operate in
the space environment. An understanding of the space environment will be a
prerequisite for developing ‘‘flyable’’ MEMS hardware. Those laboratory re-
searchers who are investigating MEMS technology for space applications must
first take the time to study and understand the unique challenges and demanding

© 2006 by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC