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Completed TRL 1 (started at 1, targeting 1)
Our objective is to develop a capability at GSFC for milli-arcsecond X-ray imaging by designing a Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) interferometry testbed. The short wavelengths demand very fine sampling of interference fringes with distance (to tens of microns) and require strict mirror alignment and stability, enabled by precise metrology. The result of this IRAD is a geometrical analysis and paper blueprint to build a laboratory demonstration to create interferometric fringes and reconstruct a simple 2-D image.
The 2020 Astrophysics Decadal Survey recommended a Great Observatories Mission and Technology Maturation Program for far-IR and X-ray missions. The technology for this work is fundamental for future missions to reach theoretical limits in the X-ray observing band. The benefits to the Center are to increase our experience base and develop critical expertise. This IRAD contributes to strategic positioning for a possible infusion of technology development funds to be viable for a facility class observatory in the 2030-2040s timeframe.
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