← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
The goal of the proposed program is to enable increased angular resolution and collection areas for future major X-ray observatories by incorporating improved figure control of the mirror surfaces. Current X-ray telescopes are limited by inabilities to prepare perfect surfaces. This project will utilize thin film electro-mechanical actuators that allow the mirror surfaces to be adjusted after fabrication. In addition, we will incorporate electronics directly on the actuator to simplify control of individual cells and increase system fault tolerance. This will significantly reduce system complexity and greatly enhance the feasibility of adjustable X-ray optics.
The goal of the proposed program is to enable increased angular resolution and collection areas for future major X-ray observatories by incorporating improved figure control of the mirror surfaces.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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.
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.