ESA Open Invitation to Tender: 1-11188
Open Date: 21/07/2022 17:17 CEST
Closing Date: 04/11/2022 13:00 CEST

Objective: The objective of this activity is to design, develop and test optical coatings at 1550 nm (C- and L-band) for long term operation with high laser powers in vacuum. This shall cover the effects of space radiation and extended exposure to the space environment.Targeted Improvements:Extend the overall mission duration to a typical GEO satellite lifetime with optical power levels exceeding 100 Watts. Description: Optical coatings are problematic with high power laser radiation in vacuum. The first step will be the definition of the laser operating conditions for the future systems and the identification of the candidate coatings that could beused. The aim is to evaluate the behaviour of coatings, primarily design for on-ground applications, under long-term laser irradiation at 1550 nm in space representative conditions. The effect of space environment constraints (vacuum thermal cycling, radiations, ATOX, contamination, ...) on coating performance will also be addressed to assess the suitability of the coating with regards to thetarget applications. As an example, molecular or particulate contamination can have an impact on the quality of the transmitted/received laser beam or lead to coating degradation, especially as performance requirements and laser power increases. In order to be able to predict end-of-life properties, a methodology aiming at assessing the behaviour of optics and the evolution of the performancesover time shall be defined. Analysis of the test results shall lead to the identification of coating technologies that are suitablefor laser communication system in the frame of space application. If none of the coating is found as suitable, way-forward such as definition of mitigation actions or recommendation for specific coating development shall be proposed. Procurement Policy: C(2) = A relevant participation (in terms of quality and quantity) of non-primes (incl. SMEs) is required. For additional information please go to this link.

Estabilishment: ESTEC
ECOS Required: No
Classified: No
Price Range: 200-500 KEURO
Authorised Contact Person: Florence Odette Jeanne Glandieres
Initiating Service: TIA-TO
IP Measure: C2
Prog. Reference: E/0534-05A - OP-Other Act. Prod.
Tender Type: Open Competition
Open To Tenderers From: AT+BE+CA+CH+CZ+DE+DK+GR+ES+FR+GB+HU+IE+IT+LT+LU+NL+NO+PL+PT+RO+SE
Technology Keywords: 16-B-III-Mirror and Telescope Technologies
Products Keywords: 2-G-1.1-d-Telescopes