Penetration X-ray Inspection of Spacecraft

Space Domain Awareness (SDA) is critical to battlespace dominance. Current SDA is limited to surface-level observation; electro-optical, infrared, RF, etc. Space-to-space X-ray inspection penetrates the surface to literally look inside space objects for characterization, intent determination, anomaly resolution, etc. This Phase II effort uses ThinkOrbital’s electron beam X-ray generator to evaluate its capability to penetrate typical spacecraft materials like 5mm aluminum, multi-layer insulation, composites, etc.).  ThinkOrbital’s team of seasoned engineers and operational space professionals have developed an X-ray inspection technology inherent in our construction ThinkToolkit to give the US the ability to literally look inside a satellite and create a 3-D model of its contents, components, and topology. Backscatter X-Ray imaging is also used terrestrially to determine the material composition being targeted[KD1] , further increasing the potential of this technology when used in space. The objectives of this proposal is to 1) refine the CONOPS and technology necessary for on-orbit, satellite-to-satellite X-ray imaging; 2) characterize and identify X-Ray imaging capabilities and limitations; 3) build the foundational algorithms necessary for 3-D image processing and; 4) use the X-Ray inspection tool to see inside a representative spacecraft and define internal components. Future iterations of this development will include 3-D imaging, backscatter material identification, and real-time imaging of in-space welded structures.