15-m laser-stabilized imaging interferometer

Robin T. Stebbins; Peter L. Bender; Che Jen Chen; Norman A. Page; David L. Meier; A. K. Dupree

doi:10.1117/12.213002

26 June 1995 15-m laser-stabilized imaging interferometer

Robin T. Stebbins, Peter L. Bender, Che Jen Chen, Norman A. Page, David L. Meier, A. K. Dupree

Proceedings Volume 2477, Spaceborne Interferometry II; (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.213002
Event: SPIE's 1995 Symposium on OE/Aerospace Sensing and Dual Use Photonics, 1995, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

The LAser-Stabilized Imaging Interferometer (LASII) concept is being developed as an astronomical telescope for the next generation of optical resolution beyond Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The essential ingredients are: a rigid and stable structure to minimize mechanical and thermal distortion, active control of the optical geometry by a laser metrology system, a self-deploying structure fitting into a single launch vehicle, and ultraviolet operation. We have modified earlier design concepts to fit the scale of an intermediate sized NASA mission. Our present design calls for 24 0.5 m apertures in a Mills Cross configuration, supported on four trusses. A fifth truss perpendicular to the primary surface would support the secondary mirror and the laser metrology control points. Either separate interferometers or two guide telescopes would track guide stars. This instrument would have about 6 times the resolution of HST in the visible and the same collecting area. The resolution would reach 2.5 mas at 150 nm. The primary trusses would fold along the secondary truss for launch, and automatically deploy on orbit. Possible orbits are sun-synchronous at 900 km altitude, high earth orbit or solar orbit. Infrared capability could be included, if desired.

Citation Download Citation

Robin T. Stebbins, Peter L. Bender, Che Jen Chen, Norman A. Page, David L. Meier, and A. K. Dupree "15-m laser-stabilized imaging interferometer", Proc. SPIE 2477, Spaceborne Interferometry II, (26 June 1995); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.213002

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