Space Interferometry Mission (SIM)—technology completion and transition to flight

摘要

Optical interferometry will open new vistas for astronomy over the next decade. The Space Interferometry Mission, operating unfettered by the Earth's atmosphere, will offer unprecedented astrometric precision that promises the discovery of Earth-class extra-solar planets as well as a wealth of important astrophysics. Optical interferometers also present severe technological challenges: laser metrology systems must perform with sub-nanometer precision; mechanical vibrations must be controlled to nanometers requiring orders of magnitude disturbance rejection; a multitude of actuators and sensors must operate flawlessly and in concert. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory along with its industry partners, Northrop Grumman Space Technology, and Lockheed Martin, are addressing these challenges with a technology development program that is nearing completion. Emphasis is shifting from technology demonstration to technology transfer to the flight team that will build and launch the space system.