Accurate On-Orbit Spectral Calibration of Next Generation Nanosatellite Sensors

Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)

Description

AdvR, Inc. utilizes periodically poled nonlinear waveguides to frequency double and triple a stabilized diode pump laser, providing three correlated wavelengths for spectral calibration. AdvR’s patented periodic poling technique enables this single pass, highly efficient, waveguide based frequency tripling technology that has been demonstrated in spectrographic and remote sensing applications. Work outlined for this IRAD culminates in delivery (to LaRC) of a validated engineering design unit (EDU) that approximately meets size, weight, and power (SWaP), with two channels (1064 and 1550 nm diodes) providing six total calibration wavelengths, with 0.1 nm absolute accuracy verified at AdvR’s facilities. Follow-on work to what is currently being proposed includes further development and testing specifically for a nanosatellite environment (thermal vacuum chamber (TVAC) testing, vibration testing, etc.) and configuration of the spectral calibration system to be part of ARCSTONE (via shutter inclusion or other means, and inclusion in control electronics design) as a proving grounds over FY22, pending partnership with AdvR in an ESTO InVEST proposal or other funding means.

Benefits

Remote sensing instruments for climate science, land imaging, ocean biology and environment, and planetary science that separate light by wavelength (spectrographs and spectrometers, hyperspectral instruments, and narrow-band imagers), require absolute spectral calibration accuracy. Spectral calibration systems are used on-orbit to establish spectral scale accuracy and correct for possible wavelength position changes, which directly affect the accuracy of the final science products. Such changes occur due to on-orbit thermal variations, vibrations/shocks at launch, or spectrally-dependent contamination or degradation of the instrument during flight. Focusing on wavelength accuracy and stability only, we propose here a spectral calibration system intended for nanosatellites, where low mass, volume, and cost are high priorities. The proposed technology is applicable to future Earth and Planetary (Moon included) science spectral sensors.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Lasers
Program	Center Innovation Fund: LaRC CIF (LaRC CIF)
Lead organization	Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
Start date	2020-10-01
End date	2021-09-30

Project contacts

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Trevor P Jackson — trevor.p.jackson@nasa.gov

How to get involved

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