Reliability, Resilience and Safety

As suggested by quote, satellite design requires special consideration to the unique operational environment. Extreme temperatures variations, electromagnetic radiation, and the vacuum of space are just a few examples of challenges in traditional satellite design. Given the magnitude and scope of the Sunwire project, it is necessary to focus resources towards an extensive reliability analysis. This comprehensive process both ensures mission success and addresses safety concerns, mitigating the extreme consequences of failure or malfunctionIn orbit, the Sunwire satellites face a variety of concerns, including radiation, meteorites, and space debris, as well as microscopic phenomena such as outgassing and tin whiskers.

REFERENCES

[1] http://www.sandia.gov/media/satelli.htm