Experimental Models of Effects Simulation

Testing to space environment is a difficult process in which test representativity is always a question. Every time a new experimental array is set up, a trade-off has to be performed to produce an acceptable blend of physical accuracy, versatility, growth capability, and cost efficiency. Coatings are tested to resist UV, electron and proton irradiations and also oxat, in test bed where vacuum is held all along the test. Electronic parts are tested to total doses in far more simple arrays, using Co60 sources. Sporadic effects such as SEE due to cosmic rays and fast protons and also such as ESD depends strongly on the instantaneous values of space environment affected by solar activity. SEE tests are performed on a few big accelerators. ESD experimental arrays are presently undergoing a great complexity due to the necessity to take into account the whole spectral of energies from ionospheric plasma (or propulsion plasma) to MeV radiation belt particles. For all the examples quoted, the environment thus simulated depends strongly on the sun activity. Implementation of space weather could contribute to the best definition according three points : -a better definition of worst cases (magnitude, frequency of occurrence...); -a better understanding of mean cases; a better analysis of in-flight measurements. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT : This paper includes significant loans from A. Paillous, J.-P. David, L. Levy and R. Reulet of ONERA/DESP. Let them be thanked for their contribution.