Structural Design Concepts For The 8-Meter Unit Telescopes Of The ESO-VLT

Michael W Schneermann

doi:10.1117/12.963558

20 August 1986 Structural Design Concepts For The 8-Meter Unit Telescopes Of The ESO-VLT

Michael W Schneermann

Proceedings Volume 0628, Advanced Technology Optical Telescopes III; (1986) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.963558
Event: 1986 Astronomy Conferences, 1986, Tucson, United States

Abstract

In the ESO Very Large Telescope base-line concept four mechanically identical 8-meter telescopes are combined to form a fixed array. Several structural designs for the 8-meter telescope, based on the classical alt-azimuth mounting concept and considering the environmental conditions for a domeless telescope, have been worked out. In a design optimization process weight and cost of the telescope structure have been minimized under static and dynamic constraints, e.g. a first eigenfrequency of the telescope structure greater than 7 Hz. Whereever possible an open truss design was preferred to a closed box structure. The different design concepts are described and the results of a static and dynamic structural analysis, i.e. the deflections due to gravity and 'wind loading as well as the fundamental eigenfrequencies and mode shapes, are presented. Finally an attempt was made to predict the dynamic performance limits of large telescope structures.

Citation Download Citation

Michael W Schneermann "Structural Design Concepts For The 8-Meter Unit Telescopes Of The ESO-VLT", Proc. SPIE 0628, Advanced Technology Optical Telescopes III, (20 August 1986); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.963558

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