Ion Optics proposes to develop innovative 2D plasmonic-photonic crystal coatings for improved thermal rejection and stray light control for space tracking and surveillance systems. These coatings will survive rapid cycling to cryogenic temperatures. Photonic crystals are a new class of periodic structures with controllable electromagnetic radiation properties through changes in materials and geometry. Coupling modes in the photonic crystal to plasmons at the surface of a metallic array of holes further enhances the spectral control. By dramatically improving the ratio between visible absorptance and infrared emittance in lightweight, compact and switchable 2D metallo-dielectric photonic crystal device, it becomes possible to achieve better scatter supression and heat rejection. Phase 1 research will investigate optical properties for a variety of 2D metallo-dielectric photonic crystal structures on silicon and polymer substrates. These structures have potential for large conformal area fabrication by micromolding that would allow scaling design to any system shape and power output. Another future interest is for active control with tunable plasmonic-photonic crystals to match the desired wavelength range and the thermodynamic cycles of space-borne or airborne systems. Benefits to MDA also include reduced cost and simplified structural integration with increased safety and reliability.
