Space Radiation Effects on Electronic Components in Low-earth Orbit

Space Radiation Environment, Essential Basics: Radiation in Space is generated by particles emitted from a variety of sources both within and beyond our solar system. Radiation effects from these particles can not only cause degradation, but can also cause failure of the electronic and electrical systems in space vehicles or satellites. Even high altitude commercial airliners flying polar routes have shown documented cases of avionics malfunctions due to radiation events.