Grants and Contributions

Lasers are frequently used to measure displacement. We have developed a novel frequency-modulated laser interferometer (SFM) capable of measuring up to 8 independent axes using a single laser/detector. The performance has been validated at cryogenic temperatures (4 K) and the concept adopted for the PRIMA mission concept under review by NASA. The accuracy of the SFM technique depends on knowledge of the central frequency of the laser about which it is modulated. The modulation frequency range required for our method is 100× greater than existing calibration methods, requiring a fundamentally new approach. The objectives are to implement a novel calibration strategy for the SFM technique and verify it against two lasers (HeNe, the gold standard, and a locked DFB) at levels of <1 ppm. Benefits to Canadians would be to leverage this work to secure a role in the NASA PRIMA mission. We have already received expressions of interest from the Composites Research Network which includes Tier 1 partner Boeing.

EMCCD imaging technology stands apart from competing technologies with its ability to efficiently count photons. Its closest competitor is CMOS technology which is attracting more and more interest. The brain of a camera is its controller, the electronics that support the detector. Canadian company Nüvü Cameras manufactures the world's most sensitive imaging solutions with its photon-counting controllers. Through this project, Nüvü Caméras will develop a spatial camera solution integrating its new CMOS controller for photon counting. Various complex challenges occur in adequately supporting ultra-sensitive detectors in the space environment. Nüvü Caméras stands out for its unique ability to deal with demanding, low-flux applications. By carrying out this project, Canadian capability will secure its leadership position by expanding its ability to support another innovative imaging technology in sensitivity with its renowned expertise in photon counting imaging.

The expected deliverables for this project are:
a. A completely redesigned optical and mechanical front-end
b. An engineering model QRx-35 to be used for functional and performance testing purposes
c. A completed test campaign and associated test reports including conclusions and lessons learned
d. A prioritized list of design enhancements arising from the test campaign and a plan to address them.

This project leverages existing Honeywell OISL developments to progress the following steps in the Honeywell product development:
a) Redesign, implementation, and demonstration of internal calibration to improve pointing accuracy and create a modular system that can be integrated into other telescope/terminal systems creating a potential standalone sub-product.
b) Redesign, procurement, and demonstration of an improved telescope mirror technology and design that improves mechanical performance, lowers mass, and improves manufacturability while lowering overall cost.
c) Full system mass overhaul to investigate feasibility of weight-relieved structure(s), lightweight materials, and new optical design layouts with fewer components.

The specific objectives and deliverables of the project are:
a. design and build a suitable VBG based device for LEO-LEO intersatellite links.
b. Characterize and verify the device in a laboratory.
c. Demonstrate reliability through environment TVAC/shock/vibe testing.
d. Design an overall system architecture to integrate the VBG into Honeywell’s existing OISL terminal.

The objective of this Supplements to the NSERC PDF Program AO is to award a grant supplement to postdoctoral researchers who will have been awarded an NSERC postdoctoral fellowship under NSERC’s PDF program.

The objective of this AO is to support Canadian students to participate in national and international space conferences and training events that will offer them the opportunity to learn about and be involved in the latest developments in space science and technology, to develop their professional network, and in some cases, present their research results at the national and international level.

The objective of this AO is to support Canadian students to participate in national and international space conferences and training events that will offer them the opportunity to learn about and be involved in the latest developments in space science and technology, to develop their professional network, and in some cases, present their research results at the national and international level.

The objective of this AO is to support Canadian students to participate in national and international space conferences and training events that will offer them the opportunity to learn about and be involved in the latest developments in space science and technology, to develop their professional network, and in some cases, present their research results at the national and international level.

The objective of this AO is to support Canadian students to participate in national and international space conferences and training events that will offer them the opportunity to learn about and be involved in the latest developments in space science and technology, to develop their professional network, and in some cases, present their research results at the national and international level.