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Session 55 - Space Instrumentation.
Display session, Wednesday, June 12
Tripp Commons,
A viable lunar observatory requires ultralight (areal density <5 kg/m^2) optics to keep payload mass to an absolute minimum. We report progress in making very lightweight replica mirrors and structures using space qualified composite materials. We have been able to solve the major problems of fiber printthrough and proper mold release without figure distortion. Very high surface smoothness (<10 Årms) have been achieved, mirrors of moderate size (0.4 m Ritchey-Chretien) have been produced, and ion milling tests have been performed. We are currently developing the technique to make larger (>1 m) mirrors at very low cost. In addition, radiation tolerant detectors are needed that can survive the harsh lunar environment and produce useful science data. Flight qualified high speed charge-injection detector and electronics systems have been developed. We report on radiation trials and tests to demonstrate cosmic ray noise rejection.
