Zero Net Stress Coating Method for X-Ray Mirrors

X-ray mirrors formed with zero net stress are sought for next generation space optical systems. Existing thin film deposition methods such as sputtering or atomic layer deposition each have inherent difficulties in repeatedly achieving a zero stress state at reasonable cost and throughput. Skyhaven Systems proposes to develop a deposition method to produce the desired mirror. The method is fundamentally easy to apply, economical, and readily scaled. The process is performed at ambient pressure and is expected to provide a uniform, smooth, and adherent coating. The Phase I effort will lead to demonstrating the deposition method by producing an iridium mirror with negligible stress. The coating will be evaluated for stress level, thickness, uniformity, surface roughness and adhesion. The Phase II effort is envisioned to: further improve and characterize the coating's properties in terms of process capability and environmental stability, to scale the fabrication process, and to supply full-scale coated substrates to NASA for evaluation.

The proposed technology will enable the proposed Lynx x-ray observatory mission with sub-arcsecond angular resolution and multi-square-meter effective area at an affordable cost. The development program will continue to improve angular resolution, to enable the production of 5-arcsecond x-ray telescopes, to support future Explorer-class missions.

Low-stress iridium x-ray mirror coatings may also find application in non- NASA applications such as diagnostic medical and homeland security (i.e., baggage and cargo screening) X-ray imaging.

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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