Phasing software for a free flyer space-based sparse mirror array not requiring laser interferometry

David J. Maker

doi:10.1117/12.549333

12 October 2004 Phasing software for a free flyer space-based sparse mirror array not requiring laser interferometry

David J. Maker

Proceedings Volume 5487, Optical, Infrared, and Millimeter Space Telescopes; (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.549333
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2004, Glasgow, United Kingdom

Abstract

This paper presents new software (and simulations) that would phase a space based free flyer sparse array telescope. This particular sparse array method uses mirrors that are far enough away for sensors at the focal point module to detect tip tilt by simply using the deflection of the beam from each mirror. Also the large distance allows these circle six array mirrors to be actuated flats. For piston the secondary actuated mirrors (one for each large mirror segment of these widely spaced sparse array mirrors distributed on a parabola) are moved in real time to maximize the Strehle ratio using the light from the star the planet is revolving around since that star usually has an extremely high SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio). There is then no need for a 6DOF spider web of laser interferometric beams and deep dish mirrors (as in the competing Darwin and JPL methods) to accomplish this. Also the distance between the six 3 meter aperture mirrors could be large (kilometer range) guaranteeing a high resolution and also substantial light gathering power (with these 6 large mirrors) for imaging the details on the surface of extrasolar terrestrial type planets. In any case such a multisatellite free flyer concept would then be no more complex than the European cluster which is now operational. This is a viable concept and a compelling way to image surface detail on extra solar earthlike planets. It is the ideal engineering solution to the problem of space based large baseline sparse arrays. Significant details of the software requirements have been recently developed. In this paper the Fortran code needed to both simulate and operate the actuators in the secondary mirror for this type of sparse array is discussed.

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David J. Maker "Phasing software for a free flyer space-based sparse mirror array not requiring laser interferometry", Proc. SPIE 5487, Optical, Infrared, and Millimeter Space Telescopes, (12 October 2004); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.549333

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KEYWORDS

Mirrors

Planets

Stars

Receivers

Laser interferometry

Ranging

Sensors

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