Ensuring Reliability in Space: Environmental Testing of a UV-LED Based Charge Management System for the LISA Gravitational Wave Observatory

The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission represents a significant step forward in our understanding of gravitational waves and the universe. By utilizing a combination of laser interferometry and electrostatic sensing, LISA is able to accurately measure the position of free-falling test masses, serving as gravitational reference points in space. However, the operation of this revolutionary mission is dependent upon the stability of the electrical environment, which is maintained through the Charge Management System (CMS). Our team at the University of Florida has been contracted by NASA to develop a UV-LED based CMS, which utilizes photoemission under ultraviolet illumination to neutralize excess charges on the test masses.

We will present the results of our extensive testing, including accelerated lifetime testing of UV-LEDs, proton beam radiation testing on LEDs and reference photodiodes, validation of a prototype CMS unit in thermal vacuum, characterization of custom fiber optics, and shock and vibration testing, as we work towards bringing this crucial component to flight readiness for the LISA mission.