Micromirror arrays designed and tested for space instrumentation

Abstract

Next-generation infrared astronomical instrumentation for ground-based and space telescopes requires MOEMS-based programmable slit masks for multi-object spectroscopy. We made a full space evaluation of Texas Instruments DMD chips, including tests at cold temperature and in vacuum, life tests, radiations, and vibrations and shocks. These results do not reveal any show-stopper concerning its ability to meet environmental space requirements. In parallel, a 100×200µm2 micro-mirror array was successfully designed for cryogenic temperature, fabricated and tested at 92K. Large micromirror arrays of 20'000 micromirrors have also been fabricated. These tests demonstrate the full ability of this type of components for space instrumentation.