Reconfigurable Optoelectronic Mirror Evaluation (ROME) System

NASA seeks innovative tools and technologies that support and enhance the characterization of Large Aperture Mirrors (LAMs). These mirrors are used for space-based segmented large aperture telescopes as well as ground-based observatories. The need to characterize the complex dynamics of recently developed LAMs membrane mirror structures is key to their efficient design, balancing and effective operation in future systems. This proposal by Advanced Systems and Technologies, Inc. (AS&T) directly responds to the above NASA needs with a unique and comprehensive testing station that employs an architecture supporting multiple modalities of optical metrology tailored specifically for LAMs design. In this proposal, we describe a novel optical non-contact sensor concept with its architecture based on a Reconfigurable Optoelectronic Mirror Evaluation (ROME) technology that provides a local and global measurements to supports full dynamic characterization of membrane mirrors. The unparalleled measurement capabilities incorporated in ROME system are uniquely suited to the new sensor technologies sought by NASA for comprehensive LAM dynamics characterization. This proposal lays out a work plan leading towards a Phase II prototype instrument that will provide a complete test and evaluation platform for current and future NASA optical systems

The ROME systems contributes toward detection of the vibrational signatures in large space optical systems and their complex dynamics. ROME also offers a new technology for validation of the performance of space and ground telescopes through measurement of complex structural dynamics of their mirror assembly and the support structure.

ROME S&T market area is not limited to validation of space deployed optical systems. Commercial potential arising directly from the proposed program include customers involved in the development and manufacturing of various types of MEMS devices, including deformable mirrors and micro-mirror arrays. ROME S&T is equally applicable for characterization of vibrational noise in the automotive industry

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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