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Completed TRL 3 (started at 3, targeting 4)
Freeform Optics have the potential to reduce package size and improve image quality of optical instruments. This project investigates their use in CubeSat platforms.
Freeform Optics give more design degrees of freedom that enable smaller package sizes and improved image quality for optical instruments. This project includes a design study using freeform optics, and evaluation of a prototype freeform optic in enabling instruments for CubeSat platforms.
CubeSat missions.
Small Satellite missions.
Freeform optics can also benefit larger missions by improving image quality of telescopes. Examples include WFIRST and ATLAST.
Freeform Optics benefits any commercial space industry customer interested in better image quality or reduced package size of optical instruments.
Freeform Optics can potentially benefit other agencies interested in remote sensing applications, such as NOAA and DOD.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.
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