Space telescope design considerations

Lee D. Feinberg; Bruce H. Dean; William L. Hayden; Joseph M. Howard; Ritva A. Keski-Kuha; Lester M. Cohen

doi:10.1117/1.OE.51.1.011006

6 February 2012 Space telescope design considerations

Lee D. Feinberg, Bruce H. Dean, William L. Hayden, Joseph M. Howard, Ritva A. Keski-Kuha, Lester M. Cohen

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Optical Engineering, Vol. 51, Issue 1, 011006 (February 2012). https://doi.org/10.1117/1.OE.51.1.011006

Abstract

The design considerations for astronomical space telescopes cover many disciplines but can be simplified into two overarching constraints: the desire to maximize science while adhering to budgetary constraints. More than ever, understanding the cost implications up front will be critical to success. Science performance can be translated into a set of simple performance metrics that set the requirements for design options. Cost is typically estimated by considering mass, complexity, technology maturity, and heritage. With this in mind, we survey the many diverse design considerations for a space telescope and, where appropriate, relate them to these basic performance metrics. In so doing, we hope to provide a roadmap for future space telescope designers on how best to optimize the design to maximize science and minimize total cost.

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Lee D. Feinberg, Bruce H. Dean, William L. Hayden, Joseph M. Howard, Ritva A. Keski-Kuha, and Lester M. Cohen "Space telescope design considerations," Optical Engineering 51(1), 011006 (6 February 2012). https://doi.org/10.1117/1.OE.51.1.011006

Published: 6 February 2012

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