System and method for nanostructure apodization mask for transmitter signal suppression in a duplex telescope

US8963068B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration · US

Inventors

• John Hagopian · Harwood, US
• Jeffrey C. Livas · Severna Park, US
• Shahram R. Shiri · Reisterstown, US
• Stephanie A. Getty · Washington, US
• June L Tveekrem · Columbia, US
• James J. Butler · Tucson, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 28, 2011
• Grant date: Feb 24, 2015
• Expiry date: Nov 7, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S977/809
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a system for an apodization mask composed of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for absorbing unwanted stray light. An apodization mask is a precise pattern or shape that is mathematically derived using light scattering measurement techniques to achieve optimal light absorption.Also disclosed herein is an apparatus for a duplex telescope with stray light suppressing capabilities comprising: a primary mirror for transmitting and receiving light; a secondary mirror for defocusing transmitted light onto the primary mirror and for focusing received light; a photodetector which receives light; a laser transmitter which transmits light; and an apodization mask for absorbing stray transmitted light.