Space hardware must work the first time, often with no opportunity for repair. When a part fails in qualification, screening, or integration, programs need a fast, definitive root cause. Watson Analytical provides failure analysis, physical analysis, and contamination identification for satellite, launch vehicle, and space system electronics from an ITAR-registered, ISO 9001:2015 certified laboratory in San Diego.
Services for Space Programs
- Root cause failure analysis: fault isolation and physical analysis of qualification, screening, and integration failures.
- Physical analysis: X-ray inspection, acoustic microscopy, internal visual inspection, cross-sectioning, and SEM/EDX.
- Contamination and outgassing residue identification: FTIR microscopy combined with SEM/EDX.
- Suspect and counterfeit part screening: non-destructive inspection and die verification of parts from non-franchised sources.
- ESD testing: HBM and CDM classification with failure analysis of ESD and EOS damage.
Why Contamination Matters in Space
In vacuum, materials such as adhesives, lubricants, and polymers can outgas and condense on optics, sensors, and thermal surfaces, degrading performance. Particles and residues can also cause electrical leakage and mechanical interference. Identifying the material and tracing it to its source is the first step in corrective action. FTIR microscopy identifies organic residues by molecular structure, and SEM/EDX identifies inorganic and metallic particles, together providing a complete picture.
Security and Quality
- ITAR registered, with a documented export compliance program for controlled hardware and data
- ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management system
- CMMC Level 2 certification in progress
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you identify outgassing residues on space hardware?
Yes. FTIR microscopy with reference library matching identifies organic residues such as silicones, adhesives, and lubricants, and SEM/EDX identifies inorganic particles.
Do you handle ITAR-controlled space hardware?
Yes. We are ITAR registered and handle export-controlled hardware and technical data under a documented export compliance program.
Can you evaluate parts from non-franchised sources?
Yes. We combine external visual inspection, X-ray, acoustic microscopy, and decapsulation with die verification to evaluate suspect parts before they reach flight hardware.
Work With Us
Contact us to discuss your program requirements and request a quote.