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Completed TRL 2 (started at 2, targeting 4)
The rate of advancement in laser-based remote sensing and spectrometry has far exceeded the capabilities of flight-qualified high voltage (HV) pulse drivers. As well as impeding performance of existing instrumentation, the limit on HV pulse slew rate is preventing revolutionary instruments from becoming practical for spaceflight applications. We propose to design, build and demonstrate a flight-path state-of-the-art HV pulse driver module with unprecedented slew rate and pulse adjustability for the advancement of planetary and lunar science. This IRAD will culminate with the integration and test of a compact laser regenerative ring amplifier for eye safe lunar ranging, promising unprecedented output power and range.
This work will enable new instrumentation capabilities while simultaneously maturing a NASA Agency critical Tier 2 Capability by developing Goddard’s in-house competencies in high voltage (HV) design, packaging, assembly, insulation and screening techniques addressing Code 500 Risk ID: ETD-00056: High Voltage Capability. It will reduce risk associated with HV mass spectrometry and charged particle instrumentation affecting many GSFC flight instruments from missions including Dragonfly, GDC, DAVINCI+ and others.
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