Active Microwave Thermography Prototype Development for use as an In-Space Nondestructive Evaluation Tool

NASA has needs for sensors and nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques that can operate in-space to be able to sustain rapid, safe, and efficient space transport, sustainable living and working farther from Earth, and to support transformative missions and discoveries. In particular, NDE is needed to support in-space assembly, manufacturing, and refueling, advanced propulsion techniques, in situ resource utilization, and surface excavation and construction. NDE modalities for in-space applications and use are limited. In this proposal, Texas Research Institute (TRI) Austin and the Missouri University of Science and Technology (MST) propose the development of active microwave thermography (AMT) for use as an option for NASA as in-space NDE. Phase I will focus on demonstrating the system capabilities and mapping out a design for a Phase II prototype system that will be delivered to NASA upon the completion of the Phase II effort.