Compact ultra-violet spectropolarimetry enabled by meta-grating technologies

Significant differential absorption in the ultraviolet (UV) Huggins bands of ozone presents a variable, ozone specific polarimetric signature that can be discerned with sufficient sensitivity spectro-polarimetric measurements to separate the signature of harmful near surface ozone from the stronger signals of stratospheric ozone. As outlined as a 'most important' objective in the 2017 Earth Science Decadal survey, the earth science air quality community stands to benefit from tracking ozone in the planetary boundary layer to enable scientific and societal benefit efforts surrounding human and eco-system health. Existing methods for ozone detection are mostly effective in the stratosphere (UV and microwave) and upper troposphere (IR), and/or for measurement of total column ozone (UV). However, separation of the critical near surface signals requires the development of new methods. We propose an ambitious effort to realize the promise of polarization specific meta-surface gratings to enable a compact UV imaging spectropolarimeter. Such an instrument could take advantage of the natural differences in Rayleigh scattering at the variable penetration depths across the ozone Huggins bands, measuring the more strongly polarized light that is specific to near surface ozone absorptions. This technical team has demonstrated viable near-infrared polarization specific meta-gratings and is poised to iterate the design four times in the three year period of performance to determine best fabrication processes associated with development of viable ultraviolet polarization specific meta-gratings. Recognizing the challenging issues with both material selection and precision lithographic methods associated with UV applications, we will also explore another point solution involving a lower risk curved grating in a Dyson system, combined with a pupil-slicing optical element and wire-grid polarizers. This risk-reducing approach will improve the chances of providing viable, compact, architectures for rapid infusion into Earth Science missions. These UV systems are currently TRL1, so our Key Milestones involve TRL development including (1) producing designs that meet science metrics [TRL2]; (2) fabricating candidate components, and (3) ultimately characterizing the components at UV wavelengths to determine performance [TRL3]. A successful effort will result in viable components ready for use in follow-on system development that could be readied for Earth System Explorer mission opportunities

Accelerate mission development and reduce risk by developing critical components and subsystems for advanced instruments and observing systems

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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.