Analysis And Design Of The Wind-Shield For The Eso Very Large Telescope

Martin Beniston; Jacques-Andre Hertig; Lorenzo Zago

doi:10.1117/12.963552

20 August 1986 Analysis And Design Of The Wind-Shield For The Eso Very Large Telescope

Martin Beniston, Jacques-Andre Hertig, Lorenzo Zago

Proceedings Volume 0628, Advanced Technology Optical Telescopes III; (1986) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.963552
Event: 1986 Astronomy Conferences, 1986, Tucson, United States

Abstract

The ESO Very Large Telescope consists of an array of four telescopes operated in the free atmosphere. The telescopes are protected against strong winds by a semi-permeable windshield oriented normal to the prevailing winds. The paper describes the studies performed for the concept of the wind-shield, and in particular mathematical simulations with a two-dimensional finite-element model for fluid flow were undertaken. This model incorporates the complete Navier-Stokes equations along with thermal stratification of the atmosphere; a turbulence parametric scheme has been adapted to close the equations. The model enables detailed studies to be carried out on the influence of wind-shield efficiency for telescope operation when a certain number of parameters are modified (for example porosity of wind-shield, height of platform above the ground, etc.). It appears that telescope operation is only partially sensitive to changes in structural parameters; the study, however, has underlined several problems which were unexpected. In particular, strong vertical velocities directed upwards at the upper part of the telescope, as well as rapid flow beneath the platform itself, may lead to certain constraints on maximum telescope operation. Two design concepts for the windshield are described, which are presently envisaged : a fixed structure with louvers, and a completely removable structure. The structure will be some 24 m high, stretching the width of the platform (approximately 160 m).

Citation Download Citation

Martin Beniston, Jacques-Andre Hertig, and Lorenzo Zago "Analysis And Design Of The Wind-Shield For The Eso Very Large Telescope", Proc. SPIE 0628, Advanced Technology Optical Telescopes III, (20 August 1986); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.963552

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