Overview: FUV Aluminum
Far-ultraviolet (FUV) broadband reflective coatings are critical for next-generation space observatories studying the ultraviolet universe. Traditional aluminum coatings degrade rapidly in the UV, limiting mission lifetimes and scientific capability. ZeCoat develops advanced FUV aluminum coatings with significantly enhanced reflectance across the entire far-ultraviolet spectrum, enabling deeper observations and longer mission durations for NASA's most ambitious UV astronomy missions.
The Technology
ZeCoat's FUV aluminum coating technology builds on decades of experience developing space-qualified optical coatings. Using precision vacuum deposition techniques, we apply protective and enhancing layers over aluminum substrates to dramatically improve reflectance in the far-ultraviolet region (120-180 nm) while maintaining excellent visible and near-infrared performance. Our multi-layer coating designs shield the aluminum from oxidation and contamination, preserving optical performance throughout the mission lifetime. The coatings are optimized for low-scatter, high-reflectance performance suitable for primary mirrors, secondary mirrors, and spectrograph optics on large space telescopes. Through NASA SBIR funding and collaborative development programs, ZeCoat continues to advance these coatings toward even higher performance targets for future UV observatories.
