XMM-Newton Satellite Observatory - Silicon Carbide Substrates 

After launch from French Guiana on 10 December 1999, the European Space Agency's X-ray Multi-Mirror satellite is the most powerful X-ray telescope ever placed in orbit. Scientists are sure the mission will help solve many cosmic mysteries, ranging from enigmatic black holes to the formation of galaxies.

Over 400 Silicon Carbide grating substrates were fabricated by Colorado Precision for the XMM-Newton X-ray telescope project.

Though the face thickness on these parts is .040", the face is flat across any point in the long direction (roughly 8 inches) to 25 microinchs

 

SiC Substrates

Trapezoid apx. 4" x 8"

.000025" flat at any point in the long direction