The Lyot Filter Demonstration Instrument (LFDI)

The Lyot Filter Demonstration Instrument is a technology advancement effort.  When completed in late 2024, it will be a validation of a temperature-compensated, electro-optically tuned, birefringent optical filter.  This technology will enable high-resolution spectroscopy within imaging system payloads for both balloon and space-borne missions studying solar physics.

LFDI Documents

1. Thermal FEA demonstrating stress free bonding and mounting approach
2. Mechanical FEA demonstrating insensitivity to shock and vibration environments of the Space-X Falcon 9 Launch Vehicle
3. Printed Circuit Board design for the temperature compensated liquid crystal variable retarder drive circuit
4. Laboratory data showing the PCB control board meets its functional and performance requirements
5. Software Algorithms and embedded microprocessor code coupling the Lyot Filter control board to the opto-mechanical assembly
6. Optical filter transmission data taken before and after thermal vacuum testing demonstrating profile characteristics (FWHH linewidth, free spectral range and tuning range)
7. +/-15V Boost Converter Board (BCB) Design and Performance