Adaptive deformable mirrors for space instruments
| Programme: | GSTP | Achieved TRL: | 4 |
| Reference: | G609-61MM | Closure: | 2015 |
| Contractor(s): | Münster Univ. of Applied Sciences (DE) | ||
As increasing needs for higher resolution for both Science and Earth Observation optical payloads demand larger primary mirrors, Active Optics constitutes an enabling technology for future large missions, correcting issues linked to manufacturing, integration, commissioning, and thermo-elastic variations. The development of space-compatible deformable mirrors is a crucial building block of future active correction loops.
Objectives:
Develop a deformable mirror prototype for space instruments, able to correct typical aberrations introduced by space conditions (gravity release, thermo-elastic deformation etc.) for future large aperture instruments, and potentially sustaining high power laser flux (for LIDAR applications).
Achievements:
Within this activity, a deformable mirror design was successfully implemented, allowing a large and accurate wavefront correction range. Prototype tests demonstrated as well the robustness of the design to thermo-vacuum conditions (incl. cryogenic), radiations, laser flux and mechanical loads.
Benefits:
This deformable mirror constitutes an ideal candidate for a pupil-conjugate corrective element inside an active correction chain for a large primary mirror.
Further work:
Further improvement of the maturity of the design (e.g. piezo material characterization, drift mitigation strategies, updated structural model).