Space Materials

Contamination Countermeasures in Space

What is Molecular Contamination in Space Materials?

In the vacuum and cryogenic conditions of outer space, trace gases emitted from materials and components can recondense and deposit, causing molecular contamination that adversely affects optical systems and sensors. How should we address this invisible risk? We present an overview of the challenges.

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What is the International Testing Standard "ASTM"?

Testing standards such as ASTM E595, E1559, and E2900 are widely used as international evaluation metrics for material selection. They quantitatively assess gas emission levels and deposition characteristics, serving as criteria for determining material suitability. We introduce the evaluation items, key points of the test methods, and NDK's QCM compliance details.

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Strengths of NDK's QCM

NDK handles integrated development from quartz crystal materials to sensor and controller design. This deep expertise in the core characteristic of the crystal itself--the heart of the QCM--enables us to provide sensors with high precision, high reproducibility, and long-term stability.
Through joint development with JAXA, we have established sensor design and evaluation technologies tailored to the space environment, including vacuum, temperature, and long-term operation.

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