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Why Microelectronics Fail in Space—and What Ken LaBel Did About It
In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Ken LaBel, one of the most respected figures in the world of radiation effects for space and defense electronics. With a decades-long career that spans NASA, missile defense, and strategic radiation-hardened electronics, Ken shares the moments that defined his professional path—from helping prove the Big Bang Theory to shaping policies on advanced packaging and testing limitations for modern microelectronics.
The conversation dives into the evolution of radiation engineering from an afterthought to a core systems discipline. Ken explains how critical collaboration, mentorship, and rigorous testing are in safeguarding both space-based scientific missions and high-reliability defense systems. He also unpacks how mission needs—whether scientific exploration or survivability in nuclear environments—demand distinct approaches to risk, reliability, and radiation resilience.
Ultimately, Ken's journey exemplifies how deep expertise, humility, and a collaborative mindset can influence the trajectory of entire sectors. His legacy spans technical leadership, cross-agency integration, and community-building—all while keeping things refreshingly human (yes, there’s a story about Belgian beer).
- [01:20] Ken explains the significance of winning the Pete Haas Award and how it reflects his collaborative work across NASA, DOE, and military agencies.
- [08:45] The early career pivot that launched Ken into radiation effects: how a boss’s challenge and a mentor’s guidance shaped everything.
- [14:54] Understanding space radiation—galactic cosmic rays, solar flares, and trapped particles—and their wide-ranging impact on electronics.
- [26:15] Lessons learned from the Hubble Space Telescope and how radiation effects became a system-level concern.
- [37:30] Ken recounts receiving a call from Nobel laureate Dr. John Mather and how knowing who to ask is sometimes the greatest expertise.
- [31:29] Why advanced packaging is the next big challenge for radiation testing and the urgent need for expanded test facilities.
- [57:20] The importance of integrated, cross-agency roadmapping and how silos can undermine technological readiness and mission success.
- Daniel Marrujo on LinkedIn
- Ken LaBel
- TSS Website
Learn more about TSS: https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
View all episodes
By Trusted Strategic SolutionsIn this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Ken LaBel, one of the most respected figures in the world of radiation effects for space and defense electronics. With a decades-long career that spans NASA, missile defense, and strategic radiation-hardened electronics, Ken shares the moments that defined his professional path—from helping prove the Big Bang Theory to shaping policies on advanced packaging and testing limitations for modern microelectronics.
The conversation dives into the evolution of radiation engineering from an afterthought to a core systems discipline. Ken explains how critical collaboration, mentorship, and rigorous testing are in safeguarding both space-based scientific missions and high-reliability defense systems. He also unpacks how mission needs—whether scientific exploration or survivability in nuclear environments—demand distinct approaches to risk, reliability, and radiation resilience.
Ultimately, Ken's journey exemplifies how deep expertise, humility, and a collaborative mindset can influence the trajectory of entire sectors. His legacy spans technical leadership, cross-agency integration, and community-building—all while keeping things refreshingly human (yes, there’s a story about Belgian beer).
- [01:20] Ken explains the significance of winning the Pete Haas Award and how it reflects his collaborative work across NASA, DOE, and military agencies.
- [08:45] The early career pivot that launched Ken into radiation effects: how a boss’s challenge and a mentor’s guidance shaped everything.
- [14:54] Understanding space radiation—galactic cosmic rays, solar flares, and trapped particles—and their wide-ranging impact on electronics.
- [26:15] Lessons learned from the Hubble Space Telescope and how radiation effects became a system-level concern.
- [37:30] Ken recounts receiving a call from Nobel laureate Dr. John Mather and how knowing who to ask is sometimes the greatest expertise.
- [31:29] Why advanced packaging is the next big challenge for radiation testing and the urgent need for expanded test facilities.
- [57:20] The importance of integrated, cross-agency roadmapping and how silos can undermine technological readiness and mission success.
- Daniel Marrujo on LinkedIn
- Ken LaBel
- TSS Website
Learn more about TSS: https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.