A small-sized device for simulating cosmic radiation has been created in Russia.

Scientists from the Institute of Physical and Technical Problems (part of the Automated Process Control and Electrical Engineering division of Rosatom State Corporation) and space industry enterprises have developed a device to simulate cosmic radiation in terrestrial conditions.

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It is designed to test the radiation resistance of microelectronics devices that are designed for space applications.

"The device includes a source of low-intensity gamma rays, which simulate the effects of electrons and protons from outer space, and a camera where the test sample is placed. The isotope caesium-137 is used as the active element. The energy of its radiation is 0.662 MeV. It is stronger than X-ray rays, but weaker than cobalt—60, an isotope used in medical equipment," Alexander Smirnov, director of the IFTP, told Izvestia.

The device is safe for humans and has a small size. This makes it possible to use it in small laboratories and design bureaus. The device does not require electricity, since isotopes emit independently, and allows testing materials around the clock.