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32 MEMS and Microstructures in Aerospace Applications

engineering approaches to develop adaptive and flexible MEMS flight system
architectures and the supporting new MEMS-scale interconnection hardware or
software building blocks. Likewise the closely associated need to test and validate
these highlyintegrated MEMS ‘‘system of systems’’ configurations prior to launch
will drive the need for adopting (and adapting) the comprehensive, highly autono-
mous built-in test (BIT) functions commonly employed in contemporary nonaero-
space commercial production lines.
Research in this arena could well lead to the establishment of a new MEMS
microsystems engineering discipline. This would be a very positive step in taking
the community down the technological path toward the ultimate goal of routine,
systematic, and straightforward infusion of MEMS technology in future space
missions.
There are several important interrelated common needs that span all the emer-
ging MEMS technology areas. Advanced tools, techniques, and methods for high-
fidelity dynamic modeling and simulation of MEMS microsystems will certainly be
needed, as will be multiple MEMS technology ground testbeds, where system
functionality can be demonstrated and exercised. These testbed environments will
permit the integration of MEMS devices in a flight configuration like hardware-in-
the-loop (HITL) fashion. The findings and the test results generated by the testbeds
will be used to update the MEMS dynamic models. The last common need is for
multiple and frequent opportunities for the on-orbit demonstration and validation of
emerging MEMS-based technologies for space. Much has been accomplished in the
way of technology flight validation under the guidance and sponsorship of such
programs as NASA’s NMP, but many more such opportunities will be required to
propel the process of validating the broad family of MEMS technologies needed to
build new and innovative space systems. The tightly interrelated areas of dynamic
models and simulations, ground testbeds, and on-orbit technology validation mis-
sions will all be essential to fully understand and to safely and effectively infuse the
MEMS into future missions.

2.5 CONCLUSIONS
The success of future science and exploration missions quite possibly will be
dependent on the development, validation, and infusion of MEMS-based micro-
systems that are not only highly integrated, power efficient, and minimally pack-
aged but also flexible and versatile enough to satisfy multimission requirements.
Several MEMS technology developments are already underway for future space
applications. The feasibility of many other MEMS innovations for space is currently
being studied and investigated.
The widespread availability and increasing proliferation of MEMS technology
specifically targeted for space applications will lead future mission architects to
evaluate entirely new design trades and options where MEMS can be effectively
infused to enhance current practices or perhaps enable completely new mission
opportunities. The space community should vigorously embrace the potential

© 2006 by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC