Bigelow, Bruce Charles; (1996) Deformable secondary mirrors for adaptive optics. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

Adaptive optics is a combination of technologies whose purpose is to remove the effects of atmospheric turbulence on telescope imaging systems. First generation adaptive optical systems have been extremely complex and expensive instruments with limited application to wide-ranging, common-user, astronomical observing programs. Since the late 1980's, the possibility of providing adaptive optical correction with an existing telescope optic (the secondary mirror) has been suggested as a means for integrating adaptive optics into the telescope infrastructure, with the promise of improved efficiency, reduced thermal emissivity, and atmospheric correction for existing instruments. Simulations, modeling, and efficiency comparisons are presented which quantify the performance gains which can be provided by an adaptive secondary mirror system. The results of feasibility studies are presented which consider mirror materials, precision positioning components, and design features applicable to large deformable mirrors. Results from an actuator and displacement sensor testing program are presented.

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