24/7 Space News
TECH SPACE
Revolutionary Laser Technology Shapes the Future of Space Exploration
This Laser Microjet machine from Synova SA in Switzerland is being employed by cosine in the Netherlands to slice novel X-ray optics for ESA's NewAthena space observatory to survey the hot, energetic Universe.
ADVERTISEMENT
     
Revolutionary Laser Technology Shapes the Future of Space Exploration
by Robert Schreiber
Zurich, Switzerland (SPX) Mar 18, 2024

A groundbreaking laser beam, reminiscent of a light sabre, is making waves in technological advancements through its innovative guidance via a hair-thin water jet, mirroring the function of traditional fibre optics.

The water jet's significant 'processing depth' facilitates the parallel slicing of larger specimens, simultaneously providing continuous cooling to the cut zone and the efficient removal of severed materials.

Synova SA's Laser Microjet technology, a Swiss innovation, is currently being utilized by cosine in the Netherlands for the precision cutting of novel X-ray optics. These components are crucial for the European Space Agency's (ESA) forthcoming NewAthena space observatory, which aims to map the high-energy universe.

X-rays, known for their energetic properties, diverge from the behavior of ordinary light waves by not reflecting off standard mirrors but requiring reflection at minimal angles, similar to stones skimming water. This necessitates the assembly of multiple mirrors to focus the X-rays effectively. The NewAthena observatory will utilize 'silicon pore optics,' a design that involves the meticulous stacking of tens of thousands of mirror plates crafted from industrial silicon wafers-commonly used in silicon chip production.

This innovative technology, developed collaboratively by ESA, cosine, and additional partners, will facilitate the construction of a 2.6-meter diameter X-ray lens for the NewAthena telescope. With the production of these mirror modules now in the demonstration phase and mass production on the horizon, NewAthena is gearing up for its 2037 launch, poised to become one of ESA's flagship 'Large class' missions.

Related Links
Synova SA
Space Technology News - Applications and Research

Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters

RELATED CONTENT
The following news reports may link to other Space Media Network websites.
TECH SPACE
Tying Knots Inside Lasers
Pasadena CA (SPX) Mar 03, 2024
What do you picture in your mind's eye when you hear the word "laser"? A light saber? A cat toy? The sensor at the supermarket reading barcodes as fast as the eye can blink? These are all lasers, but there are so many more in so many sizes and colors with capabilities that have yet to be tapped or even imagined. Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering and Applied Physics Alireza Marandi is in the business of dreaming up these lasers and creating them in the lab. Marandi's latest invest ... read more

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
TECH SPACE
Beyond Gravity launches space data service for enhanced satellite intelligence

NanoAvionics Partners with Neuraspace for Advanced Space Traffic Management Solutions

ExoTrack enhances GEO satellite management

Imagining sustainability through the eyes of future generations

TECH SPACE
Rocket Lab Marks Milestone with Successful Launch of NRO Mission from US Soil

US court dismisses Musk lawsuit against anti-hate watchdog

RocketStar unveils fusion-enhanced electric thruster for spacecraft

N. Korea's Kim oversees hypersonic missile engine test: state media

TECH SPACE
NASA and JAXA advance Martian Moons study with instrument handoff

It's go for drilling at Mineral King: Sols 4125-4126:

Surprising insights about debris flows on Mars

Life on Mars, together

TECH SPACE
Shenzhou 17 astronauts complete China's first in-space repair job

Tiangong Space Station's Solar Wings Restored After Spacewalk Repair by Shenzhou XVII Team

BIT advances microbiological research on Chinese Space Station

Chang'e 6 and new rockets highlight China's packed 2024 space agenda

TECH SPACE
Intelsat bolsters global connectivity through enhanced Eutelsat Group Partnership

Rivada Space Networks Unveils OuterNET: A Global Communications Revolution

Antaris and Aalyria unite for satellite network simulations

Airbus Prepares EUTELSAT 36D Satellite for Launch with Innovative BelugaST Transport

TECH SPACE
MatSing Elevates Satellite Communications with Advanced Lens Antenna Technology

Revolutionary Laser Technology Shapes the Future of Space Exploration

Kayhan Space revolutionizes university space programs with Pathfinder Classroom

Kymeta Delivers Groundbreaking Multi-Orbit Flat-Panel Antennas to Military Customers

TECH SPACE
Unveiling hydrogen's role in life's early energy mechanisms

Loathed by scientists, loved by nature: sulfur and the origin of life

Webb finds ethanol, other icy ingredients for making planets

Interstellar signal linked to aliens was actually just a truck

TECH SPACE
Unlocking the Secrets of Eternal Ice in the Kuiper Belt

NASA Armstrong Updates 1960s Concept to Study Giant Planets

NASA's Europa Jupiter Mission will be packed with humanity's messages

UCF scientists use James Webb Space Telescope to uncover clues about Neptune's evolution

Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters


ADVERTISEMENT



The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2023 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. All articles labeled "by Staff Writers" include reports supplied to Space Media Network by industry news wires, PR agencies, corporate press officers and the like. Such articles are individually curated and edited by Space Media Network staff on the basis of the report's information value to our industry and professional readership. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Statement Our advertisers use various cookies and the like to deliver the best ad banner available at one time. All network advertising suppliers have GDPR policies (Legitimate Interest) that conform with EU regulations for data collection. By using our websites you consent to cookie based advertising. If you do not agree with this then you must stop using the websites from May 25, 2018. Privacy Statement. Additional information can be found here at About Us.