In-Space Demonstration of Submicron Active Optomechanical Control

Extreme Diagnostics and the University of Michigan propose to fly the nanosatellite we built under this JPL SBIR technical topic. We are ready to launch.The MARIO (Measurement of Actuator Response In Orbit) project demonstrates active submicron optomechanical control for the robotic assembly of large telescopes on our existing 3U CubeSat in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). MARIO matures this technology to TRL 8/9 through closed loop control demos based on Macro Fiber Composite (MFC) piezocomposite actuators. MFCs are rugged piezoelectrics developed at NASA LaRC specifically for space.Phase I establishes flight feasibility by using the same techniques to be validated in LEO to assemble mirror elements in ground-based tests. Phase II conducts an actual flight mission where MARIO will robotically deploy, control and regulatemdash;with submicron precisionmdash;set point positioning of active structures on a deployable module.Identification and significance of the innovationWhile MFCs have flown, their performance has not been quantified under minimal thermal protection. Data is needed to show the viability of piezocomposites as optomechanical control actuators.Technical objectivesPhases I/II will mature optomechanical control through these LEO activities:Precision robotic deployment and manipulation of test structures;Sub-micron closed-loop structural control; andEvaluation and analysis of actuator performance.Phase I establishes the ability of MARIO to robotically deploy and control telescope modules. This sets the stage for flying MARIO.Research descriptionPhase I determines feasibility through:Ground-based tests using precision manipulation; andMARIO active control of optical alignment.Anticipated resultsPhase I uses MARIO technology to assemble mirror elements. Phase II conducts a 6ndash;12 month LEO mission demonstrating active submicron optomechanical control. Phase II also explores multi-dimensional actuators using new 3D printing methods and leveraging MARIO flight data.