Ultralightweight telescopes and precision pointers as enabling technologies for small low-cost missions

Dexter Wang; Michael I. Anapol

doi:10.1117/12.221360

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29 September 1995 Ultralightweight telescopes and precision pointers as enabling technologies for small low-cost missions

Dexter Wang, Michael I. Anapol

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Proceedings Volume 2553, Infrared Spaceborne Remote Sensing III; (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.221360
Event: SPIE's 1995 International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1995, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Very high precision, lightweight optical pointing devices, in conjunction with ultra lightweight telescope assemblies are enabling technolgies for small, low cost space satellite platforms. These platforms do not provide a stable pointing platform. High bandwidth, servo controlled pointers compensate for the platform instabilites. A new generation of high bandwidth, very precise pointers are possible because of very low mass mirrors made from silicon carbide (SiC), aluminum or beryllium and ultraprecise optical fringe counting encoders. Silicon carbide pointing mirrors are very attractive because of their extreme thermal stability. This allows operation over large temperature ranges and gradients. SSG, Inc. has developed a range of very lightweight telescope systems for DOD and NASA missions. These systems are applicable to small space platforms with minimal weight impact, thus enabling a new generation of very cost effective missions not yet achieved.

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Dexter Wang and Michael I. Anapol "Ultralightweight telescopes and precision pointers as enabling technologies for small low-cost missions", Proc. SPIE 2553, Infrared Spaceborne Remote Sensing III, (29 September 1995); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.221360

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