Space zoom reflector (SZR) is a key component in many applications of intending super-range deep space optical communication in interstellar task, laser antimissile etc. In this article, the demand of SZR has been analyzed, and a new plane machining method has been brought forward, which uses load on edge flexural torque to adjust the focal length and micrometer mechanisms to implement the precise closed-loop control. Firstly the study discusses the feasibility of using entire distortion to obtain steady focus in mechanics of elasticity, and then advances the techniques of its realization and methods of space combination and unfolding. Finally it describes the methods on how to adjust the SZR's focus, control tracking and pointing directions and increase its precision. Compared with SZRs made in other methods, this SZR is easier to machining, to adjust the focus and to be applied in the space combination with lower cost. All these merits give it a very good prospect.

Date Published: 12 March 2008
PDF: 10 pages
Proc. SPIE 6624, International Symposium on Photoelectronic Detection and Imaging 2007: Optoelectronic System Design, Manufacturing, and Testing, 66240F (12 March 2008); doi: 10.1117/12.791066

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 6624:
International Symposium on Photoelectronic Detection and Imaging 2007: Optoelectronic System Design, Manufacturing, and Testing
Liwei Zhou, Editor(s)