In its latest research aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA will be conducting an experiment to test the durability of DataLase marking techniques under the extreme conditions of space.

In a unique collaboration, DataLase (the laser coding and printing specialist), Intermec (the data capture solutions provider), and NASA will launch a set of marked RFID tags and aluminum discs into space. Marked with 2D codes and text, the tags and discs will be attached to the outside of the International Space Station (ISS) for an entire year to see how they will react to extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation, atomic oxygen, hard vacuum conditions, and contamination.

For this experiment, researchers specifically chose the DataLase Guardmark solution for the following reasons: its ability to create high-quality indelible (and tamper-proof) marks that can withstand the extreme conditions found in space, and to produce a higher-quality print faster than traditional inkjet marking counterparts.

Guardmark is a tamper-proof encapsulated imaging system. And it is different from standard technology because it can apply variable microscopic images or text – with a resolution of up to 10,000 dpi – directly to the surface of a product or pack. The micro text cannot be seen with the naked eye; and the position of the text can be changed, making it even more difficult to counterfeit. What’s more, it can produce images directly between the layers of a clear laminate film or self-adhesive label while maintaining the integrity of the top layer. A permanent image and tamper resistance is guaranteed. Guardmark provides three levels of protection:

• It enables covert marking of products with images or text.
• It allows encrypted data to be scanned and machine-verified
• It lets covert, hidden images to be forensically analyzed and laser-marked

According to an article in manufacturingtalk.com, NASA launched the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE 6) this February aboard the space shuttle Atlantis. The components aboard were marked using a laser beam to create identification images on DataLase’s novel color change labeling. The experiment is being carried out because ensuring traceability of such components – and the ability to create indelible marks – is critical in space exploration.

The post-experiment plans? The marked Intermec parts that survive the 12-month period will return to Earth for further evaluation and testing. The DataLase markings – should they perform as expected – will then be added to NASA’s list of part-identification requirements, used to track and trace parts and equipment on future space missions, and included in the US Armed Forces’ approved list of identification requirements. DataLase expects that the technology could then be speedily integrated into existing manufacturing systems within relevant organizations; for example, the US Navy and the Department of Defense could utilize it to track weapons and equipment.

DataLase CEO, Steve Kelly is understandable proud of this achievement. He said, “Everyone involved with the project is very proud to be part of [this] NASA mission. We have always believed our technology provides customers with a greater quality of marking than inkjet printing technologies, and it is gratifying to be recognized by technology leaders such as NASA. We are confident our solution will stand up to the rigorous requirements and look forward to undertaking continued programs with NASA and related bodies.”