Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30780: Tiny Threats in Space: Tackling Tin Whiskers with ExHAM

When you think of dangers in space, you might imagine asteroids, radiation, or equipment failure. But what if one of the threats is so tiny, it’s practically invisible? Welcome to the world of tin whiskers — microscopic metallic filaments that can sprout from surfaces containing tin. These tiny hairs might sound harmless, but in high-stakes electronics like those aboard spacecraft, they can cause short circuits, data corruption, or even catastrophic failure.

The Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) launched a crucial investigation called ExHAM: On-orbit Validation May Mitigate Tin Whisker Growth. This project, led by principal investigator Seiichiro Kan, explores how tin whiskers behave in the harsh environment of space and whether certain surface treatments or environmental factors can reduce their formation. Tin whiskers are a known issue on Earth, particularly in lead-free electronics, but space introduces new variables like microgravity, temperature swings, and cosmic radiation that could influence their growth.

The ExHAM (Exposed Experiment Handrail Attachment Mechanism) platform on the ISS is used to attach various materials and devices to the station’s exterior, exposing them to true space conditions. By testing different coatings and configurations, researchers hope to better understand how to prevent or manage tin whiskers in orbital environments. The results of this research could significantly improve the reliability and longevity of space electronics, paving the way for safer satellites, spacecraft, and missions.

This is a prime example of how even the smallest components in space systems require deep scrutiny and innovation. By nipping tin whisker growth in the bud, ExHAM helps ensure that future space missions — whether robotic or crewed — can operate with greater confidence and fewer interruptions.

Join the Agnirva Space Internship Program

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in astronomy, cosmology, space technology, and climate science through the Agnirva Space Internship Program. Join, complete virtual projects, and earn a digital certificate to showcase your space fluency in interviews, resumes, and beyond.