Structures Technologies For The Precision Segmented Reflector (PSR)

C. M. Satter; M. C. Lou

doi:10.1117/12.960849

20 September 1989 Structures Technologies For The Precision Segmented Reflector (PSR)

C. M. Satter, M. C. Lou

Proceedings Volume 1114, Active Telescope Systems; (1989) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.960849
Event: SPIE 1989 Technical Symposium on Aerospace Sensing, 1989, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

The Precision Segmented Reflector (PSR) represents an initial step in the development of enabling technologies for large, lightweight segmented optical telescopes. It is a technology development program leading to a ground-based demonstration of the design, fabrication, and assembly or deployment of a 5-m class segmented optical telescope, intended to achieve an initial alignment of the segments comprising the primary reflector surface, and maintain that surface figure in the presence of environmental disturbances (principally thermal). To achieve these objectives, the structure which supports the primary optical surface in the PSR system must meet stringent mass, stiffness, thermal stability, and fabrication precision requirements. The structure which is designed must be fabricated to an initial precision on the order of ±100 microns across its 3.8 meter surface, and must maintain that precision in the presence of a nominal temperature gradient representative of orbital operating conditions. It must additionally provide three stable points of support to each of 18 hexagonal composite reflector panels, and have removable members to accommodate the introduction of vibration suppression elements. The derivation of the design requirements for the PSR structures is discussed, as well as the approaches being used to analyze these systems, and plans for ground-based testing.

Citation Download Citation

C. M. Satter and M. C. Lou "Structures Technologies For The Precision Segmented Reflector (PSR)", Proc. SPIE 1114, Active Telescope Systems, (20 September 1989); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.960849

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