Preparation of enabling space technologies and building blocks: Optical Mirror

Main objective of the study was to increase the TRL from 4 to 5 of Printed Athermal Mirrors (PAM) inclusive demonstration with representative mirror designs 

Achievements and status: Identification and selection of representative mirror applications (laser communication, earth observation)Design and verification of optimal lattice designs for optical mirrors, inclusive cleanliness conceptTransfer of AlSi40 printing from a lab machine to an industrial machineMixed topology optimization process for mirror design (optimal distribution of bulk and lattice material)Design, manufacturing and verification of an optical mirror with significant reduction of mass and increased stiffness-to-mass ratioExtended material characterization tests (CTE, thermal stability) via thermal cycling (~90 cycles)  no demonstration of thermal stability achievedBenefits: Using optimized internal lattice structure design and topology optimization resulted in a significant reduction of mass and an increase of the stiffness-to-mass ratioHowever, thermal stability could not be demonstrated after ~ 90 cycles  requires optimization of material parameters and/or printing process