The Space Survivability Test Chamber.

The Space Survivability Test chamber is a new ground-based research instrument being used for accelerated testing of environment-induced modifications of diverse samples. The chamber simulates space environment conditions, including neutral gas atmospheres and vacuum (\textless 10$^{\mathrm{-5}}$ Pa) environments, temperature (\textasciitilde 100 K to \textgreater 450 K), ionizing radiation, electron fluxes (\textless 10 eV to \textasciitilde 2\textonehalf MeV), and vacuum ultraviolet through mid-infrared photon fluxes. This versatile test chamber is well-suited for cost-effective testing of complete systems up to the size (\textless 20 cm dia.) of a 1U CubeSat, smaller components or electronics, and individual material samples. Multiple \textit{in-flux} or \textit{in-situ} space survivability and radiation exposure tests can be performed simultaneously, as well as extensive before and after\textit{ ex-situ} tests. Currently the chamber is performing a series of radiation experiments using a Sr$^{\mathrm{90}}$ beta radiation source which approximately mimics the geostationary high energy electron spectra at \textasciitilde 4-10X accelerated rates. These measurements will serve to forecast sample radiation damage, predict lifetimes of electronics, and substantiate the ability of the chamber to mimic space environments. Specific tests include: modified efficiency of solar arrays; single event upsets and failure of commercial off-the shelf microcontrollers, memory, and sensors; structural damage and modifications of mechanical and electrical properties; changes in electron transport and arcing of materials; and modification of optical properties of glasses and polymeric materials.