Tailoring the stiffness of large mirrors to reduce specific optical aberrations

Christopher L. Hopkins

doi:10.1117/12.2636038

3 October 2022 Tailoring the stiffness of large mirrors to reduce specific optical aberrations

Christopher L. Hopkins

Proceedings Volume 12215, Optical Modeling and Performance Predictions XII; 1221509 (2022) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2636038
Event: SPIE Optical Engineering + Applications, 2022, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Presented is a method that tailors the geometry of a mirror’s core structure as well as the mounting interface such that a desired set of aberrations is reduced. It will be shown that targeting specific aberrations as opposed to reducing overall surface figure error (SFE) is a valid method to reduce weight or improve performance. Analyzed first is the self-weight deflection of a thin circular plate of uniform thickness continuously supported along its outer edge. The Kirchhoff-Love plate bending equations are related to the radially symmetric Zernike polynomials of piston, defocus, and primary spherical aberration. Next, the mirror’s radial thickness is optimized to eliminate primary and secondary spherical aberrations when the outer edge is simply supported. As an example, the method is demonstrated using a 2-meter diameter aluminum mirror where surface deflections can have an appreciable effect at mid-to-near infrared wavelengths.

Conference Presentation

Citation Download Citation

Christopher L. Hopkins "Tailoring the stiffness of large mirrors to reduce specific optical aberrations", Proc. SPIE 12215, Optical Modeling and Performance Predictions XII, 1221509 (3 October 2022); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2636038

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