Zero Net Stress Coating Method for X-Ray Mirrors

The Phase 1 programrsquo;s goal was to demonstrate an iridium coating method that would result in a zero net stress when applied to x-ray mirrors.nbsp; Coating stress is known to induce mechanical distortion to the substrate effecting the optical quality. Skyhaven Systems developed an iridium coating process for x-ray mirrors using a chemical plating method.nbsp; The method was demonstrated using full-size silicon x-ray mirror segments.nbsp; Samples tested by NASA were found to meet the mechanical figure requirements indicating acceptable coating stress levels were achieved with the process.nbsp; Results from the Phase 1 also indicated the coating had low surface roughness, high coating adhesion, a low manufacturing cost, and was readily scalable.nbsp;Skyhaven Systems intends to continue the Phase 1 success in the Phase II program through further optimization and characterization of the iridium coating process. NASArsquo;s requirements for iridium thickness, iridium density, surface roughness, manufacturing cost, and production rate will be objectives for the program.nbsp;nbsp; At the end of the Phase II program Skyhaven will have a prototype manufacturing line for producing iridium coated x-ray mirrors that meet NASArsquo;s specifications. A deliverable of ten iridium coated mirror segments will validate Skyhavenrsquo;s method.