Fabrication of off-axis optical segments

Robert A. Jones

doi:10.1117/12.130721

10 December 1992 Fabrication of off-axis optical segments

Robert A. Jones

Proceedings Volume 1752, Current Developments in Optical Design and Optical Engineering II; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.130721
Event: San Diego '92, 1992, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

The construction of a very large optical telescopes can be prohibitively costly due to the massive weight of conventional primary mirrors. The cost of such telescopes can be reduced by the use of a segmented lightweight primary mirror. An Itek process, computer controlled optical surfacing (CCOS), is ideally suited for manufacturing the off-axis aspheric segments. During CCOS operations, a subaperture tool is moved across the optic surface under accurate computer control. By altering the time that the machine grinds or polishes each surface region, accurate and rapid figure progress can be achieved. This CCOS technology is described including machine control, figuring process, pad-to-surface fit, vacuum grinding/polishing, and optic edge figuring. The utilization of CCOS to fabricate seven similar, thin, 2-meter, off- axis, aspheric optics and a lightweighted, active, off-axis mirror is related. Also, the paper summarizes the ongoing manufacture of a large active off-axis aspheric.

Citation Download Citation

Robert A. Jones "Fabrication of off-axis optical segments", Proc. SPIE 1752, Current Developments in Optical Design and Optical Engineering II, (10 December 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.130721

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