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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 91 records · Page 5
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1999

Fourier-transform optical microsystems

The design, fabrication, and initial characterization of a miniature single-pass Fourier-transform spectrometer (FTS) that has an optical bench that measures 1 cm x 5 cm x 10 cm is presented. The FTS is predicated on the classic Michelson interferometer design with a moving mirror. Precision translation of the mirror is accomplished by microfabrication of dovetailed bearing surfaces along single-crystal planes in silicon. Although it is miniaturized, the FTS maintains a relatively high spectral resolution, 0.1 cm-1, with adequate optical throughput.

NASA Discipline Environmental Health↗
NASA NTRS2000

Mechanism Design Principle for Optical-Precision, Deployable Instruments

The present paper is intended to be a guide for the design of 'microdynamically quiet' deployment mechanisms for optical-precision structures, such as deployable telescope mirrors and optical benches. Many of the guidelines included herein come directly from the field of optomechanical engineering, and are neither newly developed guidelines nor are they uniquely applicable to high-precision deployment mechanisms. However, the application of these guidelines to the design of deployment mechanisms is a rather new practice, so efforts are made herein to illustrate the process through the discussion of specific examples. The present paper summarizes a more extensive set of design guidelines for optical-precision mechanisms that are under development.

Lake, Mark S.↗
NASA NTRS2001

Development of a Submillimeter-Wavelength Immersion Grating Spectrometer

The broad goal of this project was to develop a broadband, moderate-resolution spectrometer for submillimeter wavelengths. Our original approach was to build an immersion grating spectrometer, and as such, the first step was to identify the best material (lowest loss, highest index) for the grating medium, and to characterize its properties at the foreseen optical-bench operating temperature of 1.5 K. To this end, we put our initial efforts into upgrading an existing laboratory submillimeter Fourier transform spectrometer, which allowed us to carry out the requisite materials measurements. The associated cryogenic detector dewar was also redesigned and rebuilt to carry out this work. This dewar houses the 1.5 K detector and the filter wheel used in the materials characterization. Our goal was to have the beam propagate through the samples as uniformly as possible, so the optics were redesigned to allow for the samples to be traversed by a well-defined collimated beam. The optics redesign also placed the samples at an image of the aperture stop located within the FTS. After the rebuild, we moved into the testing phase.

Phillips, T. G.↗
NASA NTRS2000

The CHANDRA X-Ray Observatory: Thermal Design, Verification, and Early Orbit Experience

The CHANDRA X-ray Observatory (formerly AXAF), one of NASA's "Great Observatories" was launched aboard the Shuttle in July 1999. CHANDRA comprises a grazing-incidence X-ray telescope of unprecedented focal-length, collecting area and angular resolution -- better than two orders of magnitude improvement in imaging performance over any previous soft X-ray (0.1-10 keV) mission. Two focal-plane instruments, one with a 150 K passively-cooled detector, provide celestial X-ray images and spectra. Thermal control of CHANDRA includes active systems for the telescope mirror and environment and the optical bench, and largely passive systems for the focal plans instruments. Performance testing of these thermal control systems required 1-1/2 years at increasing levels of integration, culminating in thermal-balance testing of the fully-configured observatory during the summer of 1998. This paper outlines details of thermal design tradeoffs and methods for both the Observatory and the two focal-plane instruments, the thermal verification philosophy of the Chandra program (what to test and at what level), and summarizes the results of the instrument, optical system and observatory testing.

Boyd, David A.↗
NASA NTRS2002

Comparison of Stress Relief Procedures for Cryogenic Aluminum Mirrors

The Infrared Multi-Object Spectrograph (IRMOS) is a facility instrument for the Kitt Peak National Observatory Mayall Telescope (3.8 meter) and an engineering prototype for a potential design for the Next Generation Space Telescope/Multi-Object Spectrograph. IRMOS is a low-to mid-resolution (R = lambda/delta-lambda = 300-3800), near-IR (0.8-2.5 micron) spectrograph which produces simultaneous spectra of approximately 100 objects in its 2.8 x 2.0 arcmin field of view using a commercial MEMS multimirror array device. The instrument operating temperature is 80 K and the design is athermal --- the optical bench and mirrors are machined from aluminum 6061-T651. In spite of its baseline mechanical stress relief, aluminum 6061-T651 harbors some residual stress, which, unless relieved during fabrication, may relieve and distort mirror figure to unacceptable levels at the operating temperature. Other cryogenic instruments using aluminum mirrors for both ground-based and space IR astronomy have employed a variety of heat treatment formulae, with mixed results. We present the results of a test program designed to empirically determine the best stress relief procedure for the IRMOS mirrors. Identical test mirrors with spherical and flat optical prescriptions are processed with five different heat treatment formulae from the literature and compared to samples with out any additional processing. After figuring via diamond turning, the mirrors are tested for figure error and radius of curvature at room temperature and at 80 K for several thermal cycles. The heat treatment procedure for the mirrors that yielded the least and most repeatable change in figure error and radius is applied to the IRMOS mirror blanks. We correlate the results of our optical testing with heat treatment and metallographic data.

Ohl, Raymond G.↗
NASA NTRS2016

Phase-Retrieval Uncertainty Estimation and Algorithm Comparison for the JWST-ISIM Test Campaign

Phase retrieval, the process of determining the exitpupil wavefront of an optical instrument from image-plane intensity measurements, is the baseline methodology for characterizing the wavefront for the suite of science instruments (SIs) in the Integrated Science Instrument Module (ISIM) for the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). JWST is a large, infrared space telescope with a 6.5-meter diameter primary mirror. JWST is currently NASA's flagship mission and will be the premier space observatory of the next decade. ISIM contains four optical benches with nine unique instruments, including redundancies. ISIM was characterized at the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) in Greenbelt, MD in a series of cryogenic vacuum tests using a telescope simulator. During these tests, phase-retrieval algorithms were used to characterize the instruments. The objective of this paper is to describe the Monte-Carlo simulations that were used to establish uncertainties (i.e., error bars) for the wavefronts of the various instruments in ISIM. Multiple retrieval algorithms were used in the analysis of ISIM phase-retrieval focus-sweep data, including an iterativetransform algorithm and a nonlinear optimization algorithm. These algorithms emphasize the recovery of numerous optical parameters, including low-order wavefront composition described by Zernike polynomial terms and high-order wavefront described by a point-by-point map, location of instrument best focus, focal ratio, exit-pupil amplitude, the morphology of any extended object, and optical jitter. The secondary objective of this paper is to report on the relative accuracies of these algorithms for the ISIM instrument tests, and a comparison of their computational complexity and their performance on central and graphical processing unit clusters. From a phase-retrieval perspective, the ISIM test campaign includes a variety of source illumination bandwidths, various image-plane sampling criteria above and below the Nyquist- Shannon critical sampling value, various extended object sizes, and several other impactful effects.

Design Analysis↗
DOE OSTI2024

Path Length Matching and Phase control for Coherently Combined Fiber Laser Arrays (1DPATH)

Coherently combined fiber lasers are literally the future of all lasers. Through coherent combining the high efficiency, ruggedness, and low cost of fiber lasers can be synthesized into any laser imaginable. Lasers of any wavelength, pulse characteristics, energy, average power, or beam output shape can be created through the coherent combination of a low cost base fiber laser. We now have the opportunity to move from traditional “Analog” lasers with their bulk optics, big optical benches, strict cleanliness requirements and high cost and fragility towards “Digital Lasers” where the output beams are shaped to provide characteristics like Orbital Angular Momentum to not only specify the traditional laser characteristics but also the output beam patterns as well. This will enable future applications such as Wakefield Accelerators, petawatt lasers, particle beam control, as well as Inertial Confinement Fusion Drivers and a host of other medical, scientific, and industrial uses.

42 ENGINEERING↗
NASA NTRS2019

The Imaging X-Ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE): Technical Overview II

The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) will add polarization to the properties (time, energy, and position) observed in x-ray astronomy. A NASA Astrophysics Small Explorer (SMEX) in partnership with the Italian Space Agency (ASI), IXPE will measure the 2–8-keV polarization of a few dozen sources during the first 2 years following its 2021 launch. The IXPE Observatory includes three identical x-ray telescopes, each comprising a 4-m-focal-length (grazingincidence) mirror module assembly (MMA) and a polarization-sensitive (imaging) detector unit (DU), separated by a deployable optical bench. The Observatory’s Spacecraft provides typical subsystems (mechanical, structural, thermal, power, electrical, telecommunications, etc.), an attitude determination and control subsystem for 3-axis stabilized pointing, and a command and data handling subsystem communicating with the science instrument and the Spacecraft subsystems.

X-ray astronomy↗
NASA NTRS1970

Carriage-rail assembly for high-resolution mechanical positioning

Carriage-rail assembly effects extreme resolution and position accuracy with little friction, and is applicable to such apparatus as optical benches, inspection fixtures, machine tools, and photographic equipment. Directions for assembly construction are given.

Bosworth, R. H.↗
NASA NTRS1968

Biology Division Habrobracon Experiment P-1079

Dosimetric analyses accumulated during the five-year period of the biosatellite program are summarized. These data are from a unique source placed in a unique optical bench, the biosatellite. Thus the multitudinous array of dosimeters was mandatory to give confidence in the experiment.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1973

Development of trace gas detection instrumentation

Breadboard hardware was constructed to demonstrate detection of a gaseous species by the heterodyne principle. The characteristics of the component parts were investigated and preliminary measurements were made to establish the sensitivity and selectivity of the method for gas analysis of CO, CO2, and N2O. A prototype heterodyne gas analyzer was designed, built, and brought into operational condition. Performance parameters of the prototype analyzer were investigated and its sensitivity to CO2 measured. Further development was undertaken for both the optical bench and the electronic processor components. A three-gas prototype analyzer, capable of measuring the gases CO, CO2, and CH4 was also constructed and tested. Detailed descriptions of the work and results are presented.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1974

An ellipsometer with variable angle of incidence for studies in ultrahigh vacuum

The windows for the vacuum chamber are incorporated into the optical bench system by means of flexible bellows which allow measurements to be made over a large range of angle of incidence, one of which is chosen so that maximum sensitivity is obtained. The principal angle of incidence was determined, and straightforward corrections for strain birefringence of vacuum chamber windows were made. Atomically clean surfaces of sodium chloride and lithium fluoride were investigated to verify the performance of the system. Submonolayer and monolayer coverage of water on these surfaces could be detected. On cleavage planes of NaCl, a first monolayer of adsorbed water is complete at about one torr only.

Walter, H. U.↗
NASA NTRS1976

Ellipsometer for measurement in ultrahigh vacuum

Ellipsometer, used with ultrahigh vacuum, allows measurement of varied angles of incidence. Vacuum chamber, directly incorporated into optical bench systems, allows varied angle measurements to be taken through same region of a window.

Walter, H. U.↗
NASA NTRS1976

Breadboard linear array scan imager using LSI solid-state technology

The performance of large scale integration photodiode arrays in a linear array scan (pushbroom) breadboard was evaluated for application to multispectral remote sensing of the earth's resources. The technical approach, implementation, and test results of the program are described. Several self scanned linear array visible photodetector focal plane arrays were fabricated and evaluated in an optical bench configuration. A 1728-detector array operating in four bands (0.5 - 1.1 micrometer) was evaluated for noise, spectral response, dynamic range, crosstalk, MTF, noise equivalent irradiance, linearity, and image quality. Other results include image artifact data, temporal characteristics, radiometric accuracy, calibration experience, chip alignment, and array fabrication experience. Special studies and experimentation were included in long array fabrication and real-time image processing for low-cost ground stations, including the use of computer image processing. High quality images were produced and all objectives of the program were attained.

Tracy, R. A.↗
NASA NTRS1977

The application of thermally stable graphite composites to a space telescope structure

An optical bench and associated mirror support structural components were designed and fabricated for the HEAO-B satellite. Stringent dimensional stability criteria dictated the use of a graphite/epoxy composite as the basic structural material. Design, analysis, and fabrication aspects are discussed for the resulting structures, which pioneer the use of advanced composite materials for significant applications to orbital flight hardware.

Prunty, J.↗
NASA NTRS1978

The High Energy Astronomy Observatory X-ray Telescope

The High Energy Astronomy Observatory-Mission B (HEAO-B) is a satellite observatory for the purpose of performing a detailed X-ray survey of the celestial sphere. Measurements will be made of stellar radiation in the range 0.2 through 20 keV. The primary viewing requirement is to provide final aspect solution and internal alignment information to correlate an observed X-ray image with the celestial sphere to within one-and-one-half arc seconds. The Observatory consists of the HEAO Spacecraft together with the X-ray Telescope. The Spacecraft provides the required attitude control and determination system, data telemetry system, space solar power system, and interface with the launch vehicle. The X-ray Telescope includes a high resolution mirror assembly, optical bench metering structure, X-ray detectors, detector positioning system, detector electronics and aspect sensing system.

Miller, R.↗
NASA NTRS1979

Research study entitled advanced X-ray astrophysical observatory (AXAF)

General background and overview material are presented along with data from studies performed to determine the sensitivity, feasibility, and required performance of systems for a total X-ray telescope assembly. Topics covered include: optical design, mirror support concepts, mirror weight estimates, the effects of l g on mirror elements, mirror assembly resonant frequencies, optical bench considerations, temperature control of the mirror assembly, and the aspect determination system.

Rasche, R. W.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Large-aperture high-resolution X-ray collimator for the Solar Maximum Mission

A description is presented of a flight-qualified large-aperture 12 x 12-arcsec angular resolution multigrid X-ray collimator developed for the Solar Maximum Mission (SMM) flat crystal spectrometer. This collimator, designed for the 1.4-22.4-A wavelength range, utilizes an optical bench/metering structure to align and support prealigned grid subassemblies. The optical bench is a lightweight, rigid, and stable aluminum honeycomb structure. The grids are of a compound and bimetallic design, having 63.5-micron square holes on an 88.9-micron spacing in 8-micron thick gold, which is in turn supported by a 76-micron thick Invar grid having 600-micron square holes on a 739-micron spacing. The small apertures in the gold provide the 12-arcsec collimation with the Invar grids providing wide angle off-axis blocking out to an approximately 35 arcmin view angle. The collimator has seven individual channels, four of a 5.1- x 10-cm area and three of a 1.3- x 10-cm area. Laboratory measurements gave an average angular resolution of 12.5 arcsec FWHM with 0.259 transmission for the large-area channels and 12.0 arcsec and 0.200 transmission for the small-area channels. A thermal filter composed of two layers of approximately 1000-A thick aluminum prevents solar heating of the front collimator grids by absorbing longer wavelength radiation while passing most of the X radiation in the band of interest.

Nobles, R. A.↗