The future of large optical system verification

Gary Matthews

doi:10.1117/12.624235

31 August 2005 The future of large optical system verification

Gary Matthews

Proceedings Volume 5899, UV/Optical/IR Space Telescopes: Innovative Technologies and Concepts II; 58990G (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.624235
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

As optical systems grow in size, there becomes a point in which traditional system verification prior to launch will become impossible. This implies that observatory ground testing will not be completed. Our history does not support this premise and therefore results in an unacceptable programmatic risk. But, if the dream of building 20-30 meter systems is ever to become true, these realities must be accepted. To make this possible, new and better analytical tools and processes must be developed and certified on programs that can be tested on the ground. This change in paradigm does not eliminate critical testing; it just does it at different assembly levels and most likely adds alignment flexibility to correct optical errors after launch. This paper provides ideas on how the hardware, analysis tools, and testing may evolve to support these ambitious future programs.

Citation Download Citation

Gary Matthews "The future of large optical system verification", Proc. SPIE 5899, UV/Optical/IR Space Telescopes: Innovative Technologies and Concepts II, 58990G (31 August 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.624235

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