Ultralightweight galvanic mirrors

Roland Graue; Dirk Kampf

doi:10.1117/12.319249

25 August 1998 Ultralightweight galvanic mirrors

Roland Graue, Dirk Kampf

Proceedings Volume 3352, Advanced Technology Optical/IR Telescopes VI; (1998) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.319249
Event: Astronomical Telescopes and Instrumentation, 1998, Kona, HI, United States

Abstract

The high precision mirror replication technology with electro-formed Nickel was substantially optimized within projects such as JET-X and XMM. Based on this experience demonstrated on several hundred mirror shells with optical surface areas up to 1.3 m² a new ultra lightweight mirror technology has been developed, enabling the production of low cost, isotropic, precision meniscus like reflectors highlighting excellent optical performance. In principle, any reflector thickness (typically 200 mm) can be electro-formed with the desired curvature and surface characteristics which is close to the optical quality of the mandrel (master). Any spherical or flat shape, including even offset elliptical reflectors, can be produced. No honeycomb or alternative stiffening structure is envisaged since the objective is to achieve a lightweight, perfectly isotropic reflector. A specific bonding between reflector meniscus and supporting structure made from Nickel is provided which avoids the introduction of local internal stress concentrations due to the final quasi-monolithic configuration. This technology can cover mirror dimensions up to several meters for astronomical, spaceborne and ground based telescopes (e.g. FIRST primary mirror) and radio antennas in the (sub)millimeter wave length range.

Citation Download Citation

Roland Graue and Dirk Kampf "Ultralightweight galvanic mirrors", Proc. SPIE 3352, Advanced Technology Optical/IR Telescopes VI, (25 August 1998); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.319249

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