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The proposed optical device is a fiber-based multi-channel switch to quickly switch a fiber-coupled laser among many possible output channels to create a fiber-based fixed-array laser transmitter for next-generation NASA lidar systems. The key innovation is the use of an arrangement of electro-optic prisms created in a nonlinear optical crystal through domain reversal to direct the laser into one ...

Improvements in radiation shielding materials are needed to support NASA's human and robotic exploration programs. Shielding for both electromagnetic radiation (gamma and x-rays) and particles (protons and neutrons) are critical. Ideally, the shielding should be part of a multifunctional, structural composite material to maximize mission payload. To meet this need, ASI will develop structural c ...

The SSC needs a hydrogen temperature sensor that can provide high accuracy, fast response and can be operated on a superheated hydrogen (SHH2) environment. This will help prepare the SSC testing facility to support the new NASA mission for US space exploration as proposed by the President in January 2004. Here, we propose to develop an innovative, non-intrusive temperature sensor based on Spontan ...

Cornerstone Research Group Inc. (CRG) proposes to develop an advanced reflexive structure system to increase the survivability of aerostructures. This reflexive system will mimic the pain withdrawal reflex on which the human body relies. The proposed reflexive system will incorporate a continuous health and performance monitoring system via an embedded dielectric film, an adaptive composite stru ...

Cornerstone Research Group inc. (CRG) proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of a lightweight, deployable Veritex TM supporting annulus structure to support large radio frequency (RF) antennas. VeritexTM composites are similar to other high-performance composites, with the exception that CRG's shape memory polymer (SMP) resin, VeriflexTM, is used as the matrix resin. This allows for easy manipul ...

Cornerstone Research Group, Inc. (CRG), has developed sandwich core composite material (SynLam(TM)) and related fabrication technology to address the drawbacks of conventional materials and fabrication processes for space-based mirrors. The resulting technologies will directly address NASA's requirement for advanced, low-cost, high quality large optics fabrication processes for building imaging s ...

Cornerstone Research Group, Inc. (CRG) proposes to develop a bonded composite patch repair and re-use system based on CRG's VeritexTM materials. VeritexTM is a composite material consisting of common reinforcement fibers such as e-glass or carbon and one of CRG's shape memory polymers. VeritexTM is a fully-cured, stiff thermoset composite at most system operating temperatures, yet it can be made t ...

While traveling to Venus, electronics and instruments go through enormous pressure, temperature, and atmospheric environment changes. In the past, this has caused problems with the life expectancy of electronics and instruments. Cornerstone Research Group, CRG, proposes to develop a Sialyte(TM)-based composite pressure vessel to perform in such extreme environments. Sialyte(TM) is an inorganic r ...

Astronomers strive to see farther and farther into the cosmos. These increased observation distances will gain access to a wealth of information that will enable a better understanding of the universe, and the origins of Earth. To gain these distances larger aperture telescopes are required. Current materials and fabrication processes for space-based mirrors have serious drawbacks that severely ...

Quantum dots are nanoscale materials that have already improved the performance of optical sensors, lasers, light emitting diodes and solar cells. The unique properties of these nanomaterials offer tremendous benefit in developing high efficiency thermophotovoltaic cells as well. Theoretical studies predict a potential efficiency of 63.2% for an array of quantum dots sandwiched between the emitter ...