Differencing Electrostatic Optical Sensor (DEOS)

In response to NASA?s need for miniature sensors to detect and measure electrostatic potential and charge distribution on payloads, spacecraft, and landers, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) in Phase I developed and demonstrated an innovative Differential Electrostatic Optical Sensor (DEOS) to overcome the current sensor problems of electrostatic shock and EMI vulnerability. POC proved the feasibility of the DEOS concept, and demonstrated sensitivity to an induced charge of 15 mV/nC, which not only meets but exceeds the NASA requirement. This sensitivity to charge enables DEOS, to remotely measure voltage with a sensitivity of 40 V per mV of output signal at a distance of 4 in., exceeding the sensitivity of commercially available sensors by a factor of 2.5. In Phase II, we will optimize the DEOS design and complete the development of DEOS, greatly advancing the accuracy and reliability of electrostatic charge and field measurements for many NASA applications. In the process, we will develop two key components: the photo-acoustic modulator (PAM), which will transform induced charge to alternating electric current; and the electro-optical converter (EOC) which will transform that electric current into an alternating optical signal. Phase II will culminate in testing, demonstration and delivery of a prototype.