Freeform Optics for Optical Payloads with Reduced Size and Weight

For the purposes of supporting planned and future NASA missions and addressing an unmet NASA need for high-quality visible through shortwave-infrared telescope phase-correction optics manufactured and delivered quickly and inexpensively, Voxtel proposes a Phase II effort to develop a new class of three-dimensional freeform optics and to demonstrate the optical precision and size reduction possible for NASA satellite optical systems. The Phase I optic and ink design will be executed to improve the focus of the NASA dual freeform mirrored optical system, reduce aberrations fundamental to the design, and correct measured manufacturing process variations. Both aperture-side and field-side freeform GRIN optics will be combined in nonrotationally symmetric forms and additional freeform mirror design variables will be explored—including variations in the spacing and angular tilt of freeform mirrors—and solutions will be developed that includes polychromatic performance. Material properties will be characterized in radiation conditions expected at near-earth orbit and low-earth orbit, and new or existing nanocomposites will be developed as needed to demonstrate highly reliable operation in space radiation and harsh environment applications. Voxtel’s Phase II effort will increase the technology-readiness level from 4 to 6 by delivering to NASA a flight-capable optic produced on production-ready processes.