The effects of ionizing and particle radiation on precision frequency sources (Proposal to IEEE Standards Project P1193)

The susceptibility of quartz oscillators and atomic frequency standards to natural and enhanced ionizing and particle radiation is an important parameter in predicting the short- and long-term performance of these standards in spacecraft. A discussion of radiation environments (proton, electron, neutron, flash X-ray, gamma, and single-event upset) is presented. Selection criteria for radiation sources, including dosimetry and procedures for the radiation testing of frequency standards, are discussed. Directions for the methods by which the radiation sensitivity of frequency standards can be assessed are provided by examining the results of previous studies. >