The FEMPS sub-project has four specific objectives. The first one is to contribute and support the integration, calibration and qualification for space of the new spherical wind sensor developed by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, which is an evolved version of the previous MEDA wind sensor, currently on Mars. The spherical wind sensor uses a mixed-signal ASIC designed using "radiation hardening by design techniques", which performs the conditioning, acquisition and conversion of the sensor signals. This ASIC was developed by the research team under previous projects. The second objective is the design, at the architectural level, of a new mixed-signal ASIC for a new sensor (Subsurface 3D Heat Flux), whose concept has also been developed by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia. The critical analog front-end blocks will be designed and verified, eliminating feasibility uncertainties, and leaving the ASIC in a semi-finished state, pending only the definition of digital aspects that may be specific for specific missions (interphase, configurability), and the exhaustive functional verification of the complete system before its submission to foundry. The third objective is the exploration of opportunities and circuitry requirements for a set of chemical and biological sensors, defined by the Center of Astrobiology. Finally, the fourth objective, related to the second, is the characterization for space use of the high voltage, high power devices available in the selected integrated circuit fabrication process. These devices are necessary in a multitude of sensing systems, including the one foreseen in the second objective. Having them characterized is a strategic positioning for future developments. Radiation effects (total ionizing dose and singular events) and very low temperature effects will be characterized.
Project PID2021-126719OB-C43 funded by MICIU/AEI /10.13039/501100011033/ and FEDER 'Una manera de hacer Europa'.
