Roid Rage This Hardware Will Survive
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Apr 24, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Ashton McGinnis, Head of Space Systems at AstroForge, reveals his journey from mathematics to asteroid mining, driven by a lifelong passion for space. He shares valuable lessons learned while building the spacecraft Odin, emphasizing the intricate challenges of deep space mission engineering. Ashton highlights the importance of rigorous hardware testing and learning from failures, along with the role of effective communication in enhancing team dynamics and vendor management. With a mix of humor and insight, he paints a vivid picture of the realities of aerospace engineering.
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Ashton's Journey to Space Systems
- Ashton McGinnis found his passion for space after hearing about asteroid mining as a college freshman.
- He pivoted his studies toward aerospace and eventually worked on lunar CubeSat missions despite early company setbacks.
Deep Space Harshness Explained
- Deep space missions face a much harsher radiation and thermal environment than Earth or low Earth orbit.
- Components must endure wide temperature ranges and radiation that can cause bit flips and damage electronics.
Use Vibration Testing Thoroughly
- Use vibration tables to simulate launch conditions and catch hardware weaknesses.
- Test at the box level and perform functional tests before and after to ensure integrity.