Design, Analysis, and Additive Manufacturing of Silicon Carbide Telescopes with RadHard Coatings

In Phase I Goodman Technologies (GT) will perform a feasibility study of Silicon Carbide (SiC) materials from a database of optical system and materials vendors compiled over the years, which investigates the design and manufacture of innovative telescope optics that trade cost, weight, optical performance, and stability in the endo- and exo-atmospheric environments, and in a manmade radiation environment. GT will perform a materials agnostic assessment of the readiness of these materials for integration into a fully functional infrared (IR) telescope assembly no larger than 18-inches. GT will recommend candidate materials for telescopes. GT will evaluate our patented, electrically conductive, RoboSiC-S with proprietary additive manufacturing processes to generate high near-IR (NIR) figure accuracy mirrors, and feasibility will be demonstrated by coupon manufacture and testing. GT is supported by a System Prime with decades of legacy experience in optical sensors. In Phase II GT will work with the Prime and several Subject Matter Expert consultants and subcontracts to design, manufacture, and test a telescope sensor that meets all government requirements. Approved for Public Release | 21-MDA-11013 (19 Nov 21)