Position actuators of the 6.5-m borosilicate honeycomb primary mirrors

Luciano Miglietta; Shawn P. Callahan

doi:10.1117/12.259037

20 November 1996 Position actuators of the 6.5-m borosilicate honeycomb primary mirrors

Proceedings Volume 2865, Actuator Technology and Applications; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.259037
Event: SPIE's 1996 International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1996, Denver, CO, United States

Abstract

In order to collect as much information as possible from the universe, the latest generation of astronomical telescopes have exceptionally large diameter primary mirrors. This dramatic increase in mirror diameter, and corresponding increase in weight, has placed ever increasing demands on the technical performance of the mirror support system. In this paper the authors discuss the mechanical design, fabrication, and testing of the six servo controlled position-actuators that mechanically link the 6.5 m honeycomb mirror to six rigidly reinforced locations in the multiple mirror telescope conversion mirror cell. During telescope operation, these adjustable length actuators assure that the natural frequency of the mirror does not degrade the optical performance of the telescope. Flexures are provided on each end of the actuators to minimize any moments applied to the attachment of the actuator to the mirror. These actuators provide a precise measurement of the external forces applied to the mirror, such as wind loads, for the control of the pneumatic force system that supports the weight of the mirror. The total length of each actuator can be measured to sub-micron resolution upon request. Each actuator has a reliable fail-safe system that limits the compressive and tensile forces that can be applied to the mirror. The position-actuators meet all of the above technical specifications in both tension and compression.

Citation Download Citation

Luciano Miglietta and Shawn P. Callahan "Position actuators of the 6.5-m borosilicate honeycomb primary mirrors", Proc. SPIE 2865, Actuator Technology and Applications, (20 November 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.259037

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