Advancement of Miniature X-ray Source for Remote and In-Space Inspection (Mini X-ray Source)

Completed TRL 3 (started at 3, targeting 5)

Description

In recent years, GSFC has developed a miniature x-ray source (under P.I. K. Gendreau) in collaboration with external partners. This source was developed primarily for applications of x-ray communication, though it has already shown potential use for advanced imaging applications [Scientific Reports. (2018) 8:14195 DOI:10.1038/s41598-018-32505-z]. Our goal is to further develop this miniature x-ray source in two primary ways; 1) to increase the penetrating voltage so that it is more in line with industrial x-ray imaging needs, and 2) to reduce the spot size of the beam for reduced unsharpness so that micro-focus, high magnification imaging is feasible. Parallel to this effort (under separate funds) our team is formulating roadmaps for future in-space DR and CT and plans to incorporate this technology.

Benefits

Increase in-space inspection and remote/field inspection capability
Provide means for a low cost, easily reproducible, easily modifiable miniature micro-focus x-ray source
Since x-ray source is modulated via a rapid excitation LED source, benefits include low dose x-ray and indexable or sequential excitation (between multiple sources)

Details

Technology area	Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems, and Manufacturing > Manufacturing > Nondestructive Evaluation and Sensors
Program	Nondestructive Evaluation Program (NDE)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2020-10-01
End date	2021-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Justin S Jones — justin.s.jones@nasa.gov
Keith C Gendreau — keith.c.gendreau@nasa.gov
Eric R Burke — eric.r.burke@nasa.gov
Nathan A Smith — nathan.a.smith@nasa.gov
Ryan A Kent — ryan.a.kent@nasa.gov
Steven J Kenyon — steven.j.kenyon@nasa.gov

How to get involved

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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