The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, in collaboration with the Advanced Radiation Technology Institute, Chungbuk National University, and Belgium’s IMEC, have announced a world-first validation of next-generation AI semiconductor technology capable of stable operation in space radiation environments. This research addresses a critical challenge in space exploration: ensuring that AI and big data processing chips can withstand the harsh radiation found in outer space. The study focused on developing and testing indium-gallium-zinc oxide (IGZO) based synaptic transistors for neuromorphic computing. The findings were published in the March issue of the international journal ‘Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing.’
The new technology impacts the aerospace, AI, and semiconductor industries, particularly those involved in space missions and satellite operations. The research team fabricated IGZO-based devices and subjected them to high-energy proton beams using a proton accelerator at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute. The radiation dose simulated over 20 years of exposure in low Earth orbit, exceeding the typical 5–15 year lifespan of satellites. Despite some reduction in drive current, the devices maintained stable switching and synaptic plasticity, essential for neuromorphic computing.
The project began with device fabrication and characterization, followed by rigorous radiation testing and performance evaluation. Key results included a 92.61% pattern recognition accuracy in neuromorphic computing simulations (MNIST handwriting recognition) after radiation exposure. Additionally, the team demonstrated a 4-bit reservoir computing system suitable for time-series information processing. Each institution contributed its expertise: Chungbuk National University handled device fabrication and evaluation, the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute managed proton irradiation and analysis, and IMEC in Belgium supported result interpretation.
Frequently asked questions include: What is the significance of this research? It proves that IGZO-based synaptic devices can function as neuromorphic computing systems even under extreme radiation, paving the way for reliable AI chips in space. What are the next steps? The team plans to develop strategies to further mitigate performance degradation and expand validation to logic circuits, aiming to establish core technologies for aerospace AI semiconductors. How will this impact Korea’s space technology sector? The Ministry of Science and ICT has pledged continued support to secure foundational technologies for independent development in the aerospace AI semiconductor field.
This research provides concrete evidence that IGZO-based neuromorphic semiconductors can withstand harsh space radiation while maintaining essential AI computing functions. The high accuracy achieved in pattern recognition after irradiation, along with stable synaptic plasticity, demonstrates the technology’s readiness for aerospace applications. The collaborative approach, involving domestic and international institutions, strengthens Korea’s position in the global AI semiconductor field. Ongoing efforts to address performance degradation and expand validation will be key to establishing Korea as a leader in space-grade AI chip technology.