The technology of integrating mechanical FEA analysis with optical estimation is essential to simulate the gravity deformation of large main mirror and the thermal deformation such as static or temperature gradient of optical structure. We present the simulation results of FEA analysis, data processing, and image performance. Three kinds of support structure for large primary mirror which have the center holding structure, the edge glue fixation and back support, are designed and compared to get the optimal gravity deformation. Variable mirror materials Zerodur/SiC are chosen and analyzed to obtain the small thermal gradient distortion. The simulation accuracy is dependent on FEA mesh quality, the load definition of structure, the fitting error from discrete data to smooth surface. A main mirror with 1m diameter is designed as an example. The appropriate structure material to match mirror, the central supporting structure, and the key aspects of FEA simulation are optimized for space application.

Date Published: 24 October 2016
PDF: 6 pages
Proc. SPIE 9682, 8th International Symposium on Advanced Optical Manufacturing and Testing Technologies: Large Mirrors and Telescopes, 968205 (24 October 2016); doi: 10.1117/12.2243294

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 9682:
8th International Symposium on Advanced Optical Manufacturing and Testing Technologies: Large Mirrors and Telescopes
Myung K. Cho; Bin Fan, Editor(s)