FIRST MODE/NASA PSYCHE PROBE ENCLOSURE


APPLICATION:

Space. Deep space optical communication (laser) aperture cover assembly.

PREVIOUS LIMITING TECHNOLOGY:

Previous structures were heavy aluminum constructions. By converting to a composite/metallic hybrid structure, the customer was able to save significant mass while retaining their preferred method of aperture cover deployment.

CHALLENGE:

This optics enclosure is part of a probe that is operating at extremely high and low temperatures. By selecting a hybrid structure, the customer acquired certain operational benefits but took on extra complexity due to the inherent CTE variations between metallic and composite materials. This was further complicated by an extremely tight schedule.

SOLUTION

Near zero CTE precision optics for space applications have been prohibitively expensive for commercial ventures. Stiffness and CTE requirements mandated use of expensive materials and processes.

Artist's rendering of the Psyche spacecraft in space with deployed solar panels. There is an inset panel in bottom right with a diagram of the spacecraft with labeled sections. The optical enclosure and deployable cover is visible, but not labeled. (Credit: Maxar/ASU/P. Rubin/NASA/JPL-Caltech)
Close up photo of the Psyche cover deployment mechanism attached to the optics enclosure. The mechanism is a metallic, spring-loaded joint. The enclosure cover is a carbon fiber sandwich panel with an aluminum core with kapton edging.
Image shows the underside of the Psyche deployable cover. The cover's interior is circular and smooth black with a curved edge. There are two hinge joins attached to the exterior carbon fiber sandwich panel exterior, which is just showing beneath edge of th ethe smooth surface.
Image shows the Psyche optics enclosure with its attached deployable cover placed on a flat grey surface. It is a composite/metallic hybrid structure. The primary structure is made of carbon fiber with metallic hinge component. It is a round structure with a wide flat edge around the bottom that has attachment holes. The deployable cover is flat . The lid is protected along the opening edge with a folded white tissue.