System-Level Segmented Telescope Design

In the next decade, NASA will develop large space-based observatories to answer for humankind the fundamental astronomy question of our age -- are we alone in the universe? Three such envisioned missions architectures -- the Origins Space Telescope (OST), the Habitable Exoplanet (HabEx) Imaging Mission, and the Large Ultraviolet/Optical/InfraRed (LUVOIR) Surveyor -- all require extreme levels of dynamic stability and precision pointing and wavefront error performance over long observation durations. Achieving ultra-stability of segmented optical systems with integrated coronagraphs involves the exquisite integration of high-performance subsystems, including isolation, reaction-cancelling fast steering mirrors, wavefront sensing and control and segment relative position control, to name a few. This presents a significant systems engineering and integrated design challenges, including requirements flowdown and definition, quantifying the performance of a large design space, and identifying areas for further technology development. While progress has been made in component technology development for large segmented optics and coronagraphs, rigorous, anchored end-to-end systems-level models and a systematic model-based design approach are needed to meet the system design challenge. The threefold objectives of the proposed research provide NASA with a solution to this end-to-end systems design challenge: (1) anchor observatory concepts and establish specifications for key sensing and control elements using integrated models to quantify end-to-end performance; (2) perform trades to arrive at observatory architecture that increase design robustness and meet science return objectives; and (3) perform early high-benefit testing and formulate a longer-term technology maturation plan to bridge technology gaps relative to the current state of the art. Two sets of models are envisioned for LUVOIR and HABEX that fully span the optical stability performance envelope: a quasi-static model where errors are principally driven by thermal deformation and long-period figure error, and a dynamic model whose errors are driven by disturbances that have time-varying signature, such as those arising from control-moment-gyroscope exported disturbances and mechanism exported loads. We will develop these models from the ground up, starting from component models provided by NASA, such as structural and optical models, and material properties. We will also address the unique thermal and cryogenic design challenges of the OST through targeted analysis and modeling, where possible. We will leverage substantial Lockheed Martin Research and Development funding that is specifically identified and allocated in support of this research, as well as the prior working relationships that we have developed in our active participation with NASA in 2017 as part of the Large Telescope Cooperative Research contracts in support of LUVOIR and OST. Lockheed Martin Space brings unique capabilities in vibration isolation and picometer level stability pioneered at its Advanced Technology Center, and for this effort, we have partnered with Harris, UTC, and Coherent-Tinsley to provide leading technology in optical materials, mechanisms and structures. Finally, LM Space is committing substantial internal Research and Development funds in calendar years 2018 and 2019 in support of this effort, in addition to extant testbed hardware. By leveraging our own experience and capabilities in large optical systems, as well as that or partners in this proposed effort, we are confident that the Lockheed Martin team can provide NASA with valuable design tools and technology plans to support its large segmented optical observatory vision for the 2020 Decadal Survey.

The Segmented Mirror Technology Program (SMTP) seeks to mature integrated system architectures that could enable the next generation of large space telescopes. At the end of 2017, NASA solicited industry proposals to carry out one-year end-to-end system-level engineering design and modeling studies and a subsequent RFP (Phase 2) requested proposals for technology maturation of technology gaps for large segmented-aperture or monolithic telescopes.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.