Superresolution optical monitor for PVT crystal growth experiments

Proposed innovation: Non-invasive, ultra-high resolution instrumentation is needed to monitor crystals grown in microgravity furnaces by Physical Vapor Transport (PVT). We propose an optical Superresolution Crystal Monitor (SCM) capable of reconstructing subwavelength object features that classical imaging systems cannot detect.Project objectives: The central goal is to show that well-known superresolution methods can be used to monitor samples in microgravity furnaces. These methods are established for use in telescopes, spectrometers, microscopes, and other optical instruments.Effort proposed: 1) breadboard a Phase I SCM that can be configured in multiple test geometries; 2) implement several prototype SCM systems and test their performance on model PVT crystals; 3) establish and document the best-performing system(s); and 4) verify that critical SCM components can be flight-qualified.Results anticipated: Phase I determines SCM feasibility by establishing that a flight system can achieve the ultra-high resolution needed to successful monitor PVT crystals during growth. Phase II centers on the design, development, construction, and delivery of a near flight-qualified SCM.Expected NASA applications: Compound semiconductors grown by PVT processes have critical features as small as several nm. The SCM supports understanding sample health and status for these and other interesting materials grown in microgravity furnaces.