Lightweight Noobed 3D Pre-Form Reinforced C/SiC Struts for Space-Borne Telescopes - LITE-STRUTS

Purpose and goal

This project focuses on Ceramic Matrix Composite Materials and aims to develop Noobed 3D Tubular Pre-Form Reinforced C/SiC struts for space-borne telescopes. Also, suitable mechanical tests and characterization of tubular items will be performed. Such struts will be significantly lighter and stronger than current alternatives. This development is driven by the needs of a leading optomechanical solutions provider to the space industry.

Expected effects and result

The increasing demand for high-resolution Earth Observation data for environmental and natural resource monitoring necessitates the development of large-scale space telescopes. Next-generation telescopes require sturdy metering structures, or struts, with qualities like high fracture toughness, efficient vibration damping, thermal stability, and reliability. This developmental project is aimed to meet these needs and pave the way for realizing ALL-ceramic telescopes to reduce launch costs and enhance space exploration capabilities.

Planned approach and implementation

The project comprises 6 work packages that span 12 months. The project consortium comprises Fureho AB (project coordinator, who will develop and manufacture Pitch carbon fibre-based Noobed 3D Tubular Pre-form Struts) and Linköping University (who will conduct tests and characterization of tubular composite materials). The work will be guided by the needs and collaboration of ECM GmbH (needs-owner and converter of Noobed 3D Tubular Pre-form Struts to C/SiC ceramic matrix composite material).