Engineering topics

Burge, Jim

Publications and source records attributed to Burge, Jim.

3 records

NASA NTRS2003

Status Report and Lessons Learned from the Univ. of Arizona NMSD

We will present the latest generation of space mirror technology being developed at the Univ. of Arizona (UA). Unlike conventional monolithic mirrors, the UA mirrors are completely active in their operation. This allows greater flexibility in the mass, volume and performance specifications. The UA mirror design uses a thin flexible substrate for the optical surface and an actuated lightweight structure for surface accuracy and support. We provide an update on the UA NGST Mirror System Demonstrator (NMSD). The 2-m, f/5 NMSD mirror uses a 2 mm thick glass substrate and weighs 86 pounds. We review the mirror's design, discuss the mythology schemes used to actuate the figure, and present a list of the lessons learned.

Baiocchi, Dave↗

NASA NTRS2002

Progress Report on the University of Arizona NGST Mirror System Demonstrator

We will present an update for the University of Arizona NGST (Next Generation Space Telescope) Mirror System Demonstrator (NMSD). The 2-m, f/5 NMSD mirror uses a 2 mm thick glass substrate and an actuated lightweight structure for surface accuracy and support. We will review the mirror's basic design and summarize the fabrication process. We will also discuss the current results from system integration and testing.

Baiocchi, Dave↗

NASA NTRS2001

[2-m Diameter NGST Mirror System Demonstrator]

The University of Arizona is manufacturing a 2-m diameter NGST Mirror System Demonstrator. This mirror uses a 2-mm thick glass facesheet as the optical surface. The shape is controlled and adjusted using 166 actuators that are mounted into a composite carbon fiber structure. The overall mass density for the mirror system is 13 kg/sq m, including glass, attachments, actuators, cabling, and support structure. The mirror operates at ambient temperatures and at cryogenic temperatures using custom built actuators and couplings. The status of the mirror fabrication will be presented.

Burge, Jim↗