Fabrication Technologies
Cutting-edge JPL flight instruments have set extreme requirements in precision, mass, and reflectivity that can surpass the ability of traditional fabrication techniques. MDL’s researchers are developing unique solutions for these next-generation components.
Scientists and engineers at JPL’s MDL are busy developing techniques using tools in the MDL’s cleanroom to fabricate these next-generation precision optical components that will bring new capabilites to NASA flight missions and scientific instruments. For example, MDL’s black silicon and silicon nitride slit has been delivered for flight on a hyperspectral imager. It is a superlative example of several unique MDL technologies coming together for a flight component.
Current Projects
Black Silicon and Silicon Nitride Slit
Next-generation precision optical components go micro.
Hyperspectral Imagers
JPL is developing hyperspectral imagers for chemical analyses on both earth and spacebound flights.
Fourier Transform X-ray Spectral Imager
MDL is advancing a novel miniature spectral imager in the soft X-ray region.