Magnetic Interface for Segmented Mirror Assembly
Newly developed magnetic devices are
used to create an interface between adjacent
mirror segments so that once assembled,
aligned, and phased, the multiple
segments will behave functionally equivalent
to a monolithic aperture mirror. One
embodiment might be a kinematic interface
that is reversible so that any number
of segments can ...
Read More >>
Axel Robotic Platform for Crater and Extreme Terrain Exploration
Other applications include exploration, search and rescue, and
open-pit mining.
To be able to conduct science investigations
on highly sloped and challenging
terrains, it is necessary to deploy science
payloads to such locations and collect
and process in situ samples. A tethered
robotic platform has been developed
that ...
Read More >>
Transpiration-Cooled Spacecraft-Insulation-Repair Fasteners
Transpiration-cooled fasteners are proposed
that operate like an open-loop heat
pipe (self-tapping screws, bolts, and
spikes) for use in on-orbit repair of thermal-insulation of a space shuttle or other
spacecraft. By limiting the temperature
rise of such a fastener and of the adjacent
repair material and thermal protection
system, the ...
Read More >>
Site Tamper and Material Plow Tool — STAMP
Tool simplifies measurement of surface samples.
A non-actuated tool has been developed
for preparing regolith for in situ
measurement by smoothing uneven surfaces
and excavating fresher subsurface
material for planetary exploration. The
STAMP tool contains two tools to prepare
regolith for in situ measurement: a
tamper to smooth ...
Read More >>