Precision segmented reflectors for space applicationsA project to develop precision segmented reflectors (PSRs) which operate at submillimeter wavelengths is described. The development of a light efficient means for the construction of large-aperture segmented reflecting space-based telescopes is the primary aim of the project. The 20-m Large Deployable Reflector (LDR) telescope is being developed for a survey mission, and it will make use of the reflector panels and materials, structures, and figure control being elaborated for the PSR. The surface accuracy of a 0.9-m PSR panel is shown to be 1.74-micron RMS, the goal of 100-micron RMS positioning accuracy has been achieved for a 4-m erectable structure. A voice-coil actuator for the figure control system architecture demonstrated 1-micron panel control accuracy in a 3-axis evaluation. The PSR technology is demonstrated to be of value for several NASA projects involving optical communications and interferometers as well as missions which make use of large-diameter segmented reflectors.
Document ID
19910054864
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Lehman, David H. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Pawlik, Eugene V. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Meinel, Aden B. (JPL Pasadena, CA, United States)
Fichter, W. B. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)