Advancement of Miniature X-ray Source for Remote and In-Space Inspection (Mini X-ray Source)

In recent years, GSFC has developed a miniature x-ray source (under P.I. K. Gendreau) in collaboration with external partners.   This source was developed primarily for applications of x-ray communication, though it has already shown potential use for advanced imaging applications [Scientific Reports. (2018) 8:14195 DOI:10.1038/s41598-018-32505-z].  Our goal is to further develop this miniature x-ray source in two primary ways; 1) to increase the penetrating voltage so that it is more in line with industrial x-ray imaging needs, and 2) to reduce the spot size of the beam for reduced unsharpness so that micro-focus, high magnification imaging is feasible.  Parallel to this effort (under separate funds) our team is formulating roadmaps for future in-space DR and CT and plans to incorporate this technology.