Morphological and Functional Modifications of Optical Thin Films for Space Applications Irradiated with Low-Energy Helium Ions

• DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b13085
• Publication Date: 2018-09-13T15:25:43Z
• Authors: M. G. Pelizzo; A. J. Corso; E. Tessarolo; R. Böttger; R. Hübner; E. Napolitani; M. Bazzan; M. Rancan; L. Armelao; W. Jark; D. Eichert; A. Martucci
• Keywords: Space environment

Future space missions will operate in increasingly hostile environments, such as those low-perihelion solar orbits and Jovian magnetosphere. This exploration involves the selection of optical materials components resistant to environmental agents. The conditions are reproduced on ground through use ion accelerators. effects He particles coming from wind impinging a gold thin film have been systematically investigated, considering absorbed doses compatible with duration European Space Agency Solar Orbiter mission. Structural morphological changes proved be dependent not only dose but also irradiation flux. A predictive model variation reflectance has developed for case lower flux irradiation. results discussed regarding reliability limitations laboratory testing. outcomes important address procedures qualification tests coatings.