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NASA NTRS1987

High-resolution spectroscopy of the z = 1.79 absorption-line system toward B2 1225 + 317

The results of Multiple Mirror Telescope echelle spectroscope scans of species in the z = 1.79 system toward the quasar B2 1225 + 317 are reported. The campaign was undertaken to compare quasar absorption-line systems with gas absorption lines in other galaxies. Relative column densities obtained for Zn II, Si II, Mg II, Fe II and H I were similar to those observed for the interstellar medium. Data analyses with photoionization models for the radiation field above the Lyman limit yielded upper and lower limits to the specific intensity at 1000 A that were consistent with the UV radiation field in the halo of a spiral galaxy.

Bechtold, Jill↗

NASA NTRS1987

Mass loss from FU Orionis objects

Estimates are presented for the mass loss rates of FU Ori, V1057 Cyg and V1515 Cyg. The approximations are made on the basis of models of the physical conditions required to generate the P Cygni profiles of the observed H-alpha and Na I lines. The spectra were obtained in 1985 using Reticons at the Whipple Observatory and Mt. Hopkins Multiple Mirror Telescope. FU Ori and V1515 Cyg each exhibited an estimate mass loss rate of 1/100,000 solar mass/yr, while that of V1507 Cyg is 10 times smaller. Magnetic wave acceleration is proposed as the driving force for the stellar winds associated with the mass losses, which are at a temperature near 5000 K when leaving the disks proposed around the T Tauri objects.

Croswell, Ken↗

NASA NTRS1987

Optical and infrared space optics challenges

A number of optical design and technology challenges are discussed with reference to specific space optics projects. The projects examined include the Large Deployable Reflector, multiple-mirror telescopes, the Hubble Space Telescope, and the Circumstellar Imaging Telescope. Other projects discussed include a voyage to a distance of 1000 astronomical units, the Shuttle Imaging Spectrometer Experiment, and directional optical systems. The ultimate challenge is the detection of and communication with any planets that may be discovered around nearby stars.

Meinel, Aden B.↗

NASA NTRS1991

Spectra of comet P/Halley at R = 4 - 8 AU

Spectra of Comet Halley (lambda lambda = 3400-6500 A) were acquired at pre- and post-perihelion distances of 4.8 AU on 1985 Feb. 17 (Coma V equals 18.9 mag) and 1987 Feb. 1 (coma V = 15.9 mag) using the 4.5-m Multiple-Mirror Telescope (MMT) and the CTIO 4.0-m telescope, respectively. The CN(0,0) violet system band flux at 4.8 AU was approx. 15 times greater at the post-perhelion phase compared to pre-perihelion. Additional post-perihelion spectra, obtained on 1986 Nov. 28 to 30 with the MTT, showed CN(0,0) and very weak C3 4040 A emission. The MMT data are one-dimensional spectra (aperture: 5 arc sec diameter) obtained with an intensified Reticon while the CTIO data are two-dimensional spectra (slit length = 280 arc sec) obtained with a 2D-Frutti photon counting system. Extended CN(0,0) emission was detected in the 1987 Feb. 1 (at 4.8 AU) spectra to a distance of at least 70 arc sec in the solar and anti-solar directions. Additional CCD spectra obtained with the KPNO 2.2-meter telescope on 1988 Feb. 20 (at 7.9 AU) show scattered solar continuum approx. 32 arc sec diameter. However, no emission features were detected at 7.9 AU.

Wehinger, Peter A.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Amplitude and intensity spatial interferometry; Proceedings of the Meeting, Tucson, AZ, Feb. 14-16, 1990

Attention is given to such topics as ground interferometers, space interferometers, speckle-based and interferometry-based astronomical observations, adaptive and atmospheric optics, speckle techniques, and instrumentation. Particular papers are presented concerning recent progress on the IR Michelson array; the IOTA interferometer project; a space interferometer concept for the detection of extrasolar earth-like planets; IR speckle imaging at Palomar; optical diameters of stars measured with the Mt. Wilson Mark III interferometer; the IR array camera for interferometry with the cophased Multiple Mirror Telescope; optimization techniques appliesd to the bispectrum of one-dimensional IR astronomical speckle data; and adaptive optical iamging for extended objects.

Breckinridge, Jim B.↗

NASA NTRS1990

A cooling flow cluster at redshift z = 0.2

The cluster of galaxies 1E0839.9 + 2938, discovered in X-ray observations by Nesci et al. (1988), is characterized on the basis of VLA 6-cm radio observations, Whipple Observatory CCD photometry, and spectroscopic observations obtained with the Multiple Mirror Telescope and the 88-inch University of Hawaii Telescope at Mauna Kea. The data are presented in tables, maps, and sample images and spectra and briefly characterized. The bright X-ray object is identified with a cluster at redshift z = 0.195; its central galaxy has radio emission of 1.1 x 10 exp 24 W/Hz as well as strong optical line emission which is not restricted to its nucleus. It is concluded that 1E0839.9 + 2938 is a cooling-flow cluster similar to 3C295 (found at z = 0.461 by Henry et al., 1986). The need for space observations (by Rosat or the AXAF) to determine the object's X-ray luminosity distribution is indicated.

Wolter, Anna↗

NASA NTRS1994

Infrared to x-ray spectral energy distributions of high redshift quasars

We have observed 14 quasars with z greater than 2.8 with the ROSAT-PSPC, and detected 12 of them, including the z=4.11 quasar 0000-263. We present the first x-ray spectrum of a radio quiet quasar with z greater than 3, 1946+768. Its x-ray spectrum is consistent with a power law with spectral index alpha(sub E)=1.8(sup +2.1, sub -1.4) and no evidence for absorption in excess of the galactic column (alpha(sub E)=1.00(sup +0.28, sub -0.32) assuming N(sub H)=N(sub H)(Gal)). A Position Sensitive Proportional Counter (PSPC) hardness ratio is used to constrain the x-ray spectral properties of the quasars for which there were less than 100 photons detected. For the radio quiet quasars, (alpha(sub E)) approximately equals 1.2, if one assumes that there is no absorption in excess of the galactic column. We combine the x-ray data with new ground based optical and near-IR spectrophotometry obtained at the Steward 2.3 m and Multiple Mirror Telescope, and data from the literature. The spectral energy distributions are compared to those of low redshift objects. For the radio quiet quasars with z greater than 2.5, the mean (alpha(sub ox)) is approximately 1.8. This is larger than the mean for quasars with z less than 2.5, but consistent with the expected value for quasars with the high optical luminosities of the objects in this sample. For the radio-loud quasars, (alpha(sub ox)) is approximately 1.4, independent of redshift. This is smaller than the expected value for the optically luminous, high redshift objects in this sample, if they are mostly GHz peaked radio sources and hence comparable to steep-spectrum, compact radio sources at lower redshift. Finally, we compare the spectral energy distributions of two representative objects to the predicted spectrum of a thin accretion disk in the Kerr geometry, and discuss the uncertainties in deriving black hole masses and mass accretion rates.

Bechtold, Jill↗

NASA NTRS1997

Dynamic Reconstruction and Multivariable Control for Force-Actuated, Thin Facesheet Adaptive Optics

The Multiple Mirror Telescope (MMT) under development at the University of Arizona takes a new approach in adaptive optics placing a large (0.65 m) force-actuated, thin facesheet deformable mirror at the secondary of an astronomical telescope, thus reducing the effects of emissivity which are important in IR astronomy. However, The large size of the mirror and low stiffness actuators used drive the natural frequencies of the mirror down into the bandwidth of the atmospheric distortion. Conventional adaptive optics takes a quasi-static approach to controlling the, deformable mirror. However, flexibility within the control bandwidth calls for a new approach to adaptive optics. Dynamic influence functions are used to characterize the influence of each actuator on the surface of the deformable mirror. A linearized model of atmospheric distortion is combined with dynamic influence functions to produce a dynamic reconstructor. This dynamic reconstructor is recognized as an optimal control problem. Solving the optimal control problem for a system with hundreds of actuators and sensors is formidable. Exploiting the circularly symmetric geometry of the mirror, and a suitable model of atmospheric distortion, the control problem is divided into a number of smaller decoupled control problems using circulant matrix theory. A hierarchic control scheme which seeks to emulate the quasi-static control approach that is generally used in adaptive optics is compared to the proposed dynamic reconstruction technique. Although dynamic reconstruction requires somewhat more computational power to implement, it achieves better performance with less power usage, and is less sensitive than the hierarchic technique.

Grocott, Simon C. O.↗

NASA NTRS1991

A flat array large telescope concept for use on the moon, earth, and in space

An astronomical optical telescope concept is described which can provide very large collecting areas, of order 1000 sq m. This is an order of magnitude larger than the new generation of telescopes now being designed and built. Multiple gimballed flat mirrors direct the beams from a celestial source into a single telescope of the same aperture as each flat mirror. Multiple images of the same source are formed at the telescope focal plane. A beam combiner collects these images and superimposes them into a single image, onto a detector or spectrograph aperture. This telescope could be used on the earth, the moon, or in space.

Woodgate, Bruce E.↗

NASA NTRS2006

Dynamic Pupil Masking for Phasing Telescope Mirror Segments

A method that would notably include dynamic pupil masking has been proposed as an enhanced version of a prior method of phasing the segments of a primary telescope mirror. The method would apply, more specifically, to a primary telescope mirror that comprises multiple segments mounted on actuators that can be used to tilt the segments and translate them along the nominal optical axis to affect wavefront control in increments as fine as a fraction of a wavelength of light. An apparatus (see figure) for implementing the proposed method would be denoted a dispersed-fringe-sensor phasing camera system (DPCS). The prior method involves the use of a dispersed-fringe sensor (DFS). The prior method was reported as part of a more comprehensive method in Coarse Alignment of a Segmented Telescope Mirror (NPO-20770), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 25, No. 4 (April 2001), page 15a. The pertinent parts of the prior method are the following: The telescope would be aimed at a bright distant point source of light (e.g., a star) and form a broadband image on an imaging detector array placed at the telescope focal plane. The construction and use of a dispersed-fringe sensor would begin with insertion of a grism (a right-angle prism with a transmission grating on the hypotenuse face) into the optical path. With other segments tilted away from the investigating region of the detector, a dispersed-fringe image would be formed by use of a designated reference segment and a selected mirror segment. The modulation period and orientation of the fringe would be analyzed to determine the magnitude and sign of the piston error (displacement along the nominal optical axis) between the two segments. The error would be used to perform a coarse-phase piston adjustment of the affected mirror segment. This determination and removing of piston error is what is meant by phasing as used above. The procedure as described thus far would be repeated until all segments had been phased.

Shi, Fang↗

NASA NTRS2007

The Importance of High Spatial and Appropriate Spectral Resolution Spectroscopy

Many diverse astronomical sources are resolved with diffraction-limited large telescopes. Application of appropriate dispersion spectroscopy unveils much information on the physics of these objects ranging from gamma ray bursters in host galaxies, star-formation regions and central engines in nearby galaxies, structures in galactic nebulae, resolved binaries with mass exchange, extended winds of massive stars, protoplanetary systems, and comets, asteroids and planets within our own solar system. Active optics and interferometers coupled with spectrographs can provide near-diffraction-limited spectroscopy from the ground but only longward of one micron. Below one micron, and certainly below 6000A, we must turn to space-based large telescopes equipped with spectrographs capable of providing spatially diffraction-limited spectroscopy of astronomical sources. Examples will be presented from the HST/STIS, ground-based and other instruments on science that has been accomplished. Suggestions will be made of what might be possible, and limitations thereof, with future large monolithic, multiple mirror or interferometric telescopes equipped with spectrographs that would be matched to the diffraction limit of the telescope.

Gull, Theodore↗

NASA NTRS2016

Multilayer Active Shell Mirrors for Space Telescopes

A novel active mirror technology based on carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) substrates and replication techniques has been developed. Multiple additional layers are implemented into the design serving various functions. Nanolaminate metal films are used to provide a high quality reflective front surface. A backing layer of thin active material is implemented to provide the surface-parallel actuation scheme. Printed electronics are used to create a custom electrode pattern and flexible routing layer. Mirrors of this design are thin (< 1.0 mm), lightweight (2.7 kg/m2 ), and have large actuation capabilities. These capabilities, along with the associated manufacturing processes, represent a significant change in design compared to traditional optics. Such mirrors could be used as lightweight primaries for small CubeSat-based telescopes or as meter-class segments for future large aperture observatories. Multiple mirrors can be produced under identical conditions enabling a substantial reduction in manufacturing cost and complexity. An overview of the mirror design and manufacturing processes is presented. Predictions on the actuation performance have been made through finite element simulations demonstrating correct abilities on the order of 250−300× for astigmatic modes with only 41 independent actuators. A description of the custom metrology system used to characterize the active mirrors is also presented. The system is based on a Reverse Hartmann test and can accommodate extremely large deviations in mirror figure (> 100 µm PV) down to sub-micron precision. The system has been validated against several traditional techniques including photogrammetry and interferometry. The mirror performance has been characterized using this system, as well as closed-loop figure correction experiments on 150 mm dia. prototypes. The mirrors have demonstrated post-correction figure accuracies of 200 nm RMS (two dead actuators limiting performance).

Reverse Hartmann↗

NASA NTRS2016

Performance of the Primary Mirror Center-of-curvature Optical Metrology System During Cryogenic Testing of the JWST Pathfinder Telescope

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) primary mirror (PM) is 6.6 m in diameter and consists of 18 hexagonal segments, each 1.5 m point-to-point. Each segment has a six degree-of-freedom hexapod actuation system and a radius-of-curvature (RoC) actuation system. The full telescope will be tested at its cryogenic operating temperature at Johnson Space Center. This testing will include center-of-curvature measurements of the PM, using the Center-of-Curvature Optical Assembly (COCOA) and the Absolute Distance Meter Assembly (ADMA). The COCOA includes an interferometer, a reflective null, an interferometer-null calibration system, coarse & fine alignment systems, and two displacement measuring interferometer systems. A multiple-wavelength interferometer (MWIF) is used for alignment & phasing of the PM segments. The ADMA is used to measure, and set, the spacing between the PM and the focus of the COCOA null (i.e. the PM center-of-curvature) for determination of the ROC. The performance of these metrology systems was assessed during two cryogenic tests at JSC. This testing was performed using the JWST Pathfinder telescope, consisting mostly of engineering development & spare hardware. The Pathfinder PM consists of two spare segments. These tests provided the opportunity to assess how well the center-of-curvature optical metrology hardware, along with the software & procedures, performed using real JWST telescope hardware. This paper will describe the test setup, the testing performed, and the resulting metrology system performance. The knowledge gained and the lessons learned during this testing will be of great benefit to the accurate & efficient cryogenic testing of the JWST flight telescope.

optical testing↗

NASA NTRS2012

Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope [WFIRST]: Telescope Design and Simulated Performance

The ASTRO2010 Decadal Survey proposed multiple missions with NIR focal planes and 3 mirror wide field telescopes in the 1.5m aperture range. None of them would have won as standalone missions WFIRST is a combination of these missions, created by Astro 2010 committee. WFIRST Science Definition Team (SDT) tasked to examine the design. Project team is a GSFC-JPL-Caltech collaboration. This interim mission design is a result of combined work by the project team with the SDT.

infrared telescopes↗

NASA NTRS2013

Overview and Recent Accomplishments of Advanced Mirror Technology Development (AMTD) for Very Large Space Telescopes

AMTD uses a science-driven systems engineering approach to define & execute a long-term strategy to mature technologies necessary to enable future large aperture space telescopes. Because we cannot predict the future, we are pursuing multiple technology paths including monolithic & segmented mirrors. Assembled outstanding team from academia, industry & government; experts in science & space telescope engineering. Derived engineering specifications from science measurement needs & implementation constraints. Maturing 6 critical technologies required to enable 4 to 8 meter UVOIR space telescope mirror assemblies for both general astrophysics & ultra-high contrast exoplanet imaging. AMTD achieving all its goals & accomplishing all its milestones.

Stahl, H. Philip↗

NASA NTRS2015

Overview and Recent Accomplishments of Advanced Mirror Technology Development Phase 2 (AMTD-2)

Mirror↗

NASA NTRS2004

Lightweight Deployable Mirrors with Tensegrity Supports

The upper part of Figure 1 shows a small-scale prototype of a developmental class of lightweight, deployable structures that would support panels in precise alignments. In this case, the panel is hexagonal and supports disks that represent segments of a primary mirror of a large telescope. The lower part of Figure 1 shows a complete conceptual structure containing multiple hexagonal panels that hold mirror segments. The structures of this class are of the tensegrity type, which was invented five decades ago by artist Kenneth Snelson. A tensegrity structure consists of momentfree compression members (struts) and tension members (cables). The structures of this particular developmental class are intended primarily as means to erect large segmented primary mirrors of astronomical telescopes or large radio antennas in outer space. Other classes of tensegrity structures could also be designed for terrestrial use as towers, masts, and supports for general structural panels. An important product of the present development effort is the engineering practice of building a lightweight, deployable structure as an assembly of tensegrity modules like the one shown in Figure 2. This module comprises two octahedral tensegrity subunits that are mirror images of each other joined at their plane of mirror symmetry. In this case, the plane of mirror symmetry is both the upper plane of the lower subunit and the lower plane of the upper subunit, and is delineated by the midheight triangle in Figure 2. In the configuration assumed by the module to balance static forces under mild loading, the upper and lower planes of each sub-unit are rotated about 30 , relative to each other, about the long (vertical) axis of the structure. Larger structures can be assembled by joining multiple modules like this one at their sides or ends. When the module is compressed axially (vertically), the first-order effect is an increase in the rotation angle, but by virtue of the mirror arrangement, the net first-order rotation between the uppermost and lowermost planes is zero. The need to have zero net rotation between these planes under all loading conditions in a typical practical structure is what prompts the use of the mirror configuration. Force and moment loadings other than simple axial compression produce only second-order deformations through strains in the struts and cables.

Zeiders, Glenn W.↗

NASA NTRS2006

Polarization Phase-Compensating Coats for Metallic Mirrors

A method of compensating for or minimizing phase differences between orthogonal polarizations of light reflected from metallic mirrors at oblique incidence, as, for example, from weakly curved mirrors, is undergoing development. The method is intended to satisfy a need to maintain precise polarization phase relationships or minimum polarization differences needed for proper operation of telescopes and other scientific instruments that include single or multiple mirrors. The basic idea of the method is to optimally coat mirrors with thin engineered layers of materials that introduce phase differences that, as nearly precisely as possible, are opposite of the undesired phase differences arising in reflection with non-optimum coatings. Depending on the specific optical system, the method could involve any or all of the following elements: a) Optimization of a single coat on all the mirrors in the system. b) Optimization of a unique coat for each mirror such that the polarization phase effects of the coat on one mirror compensate, to an acceptably high degree over an acceptably wide wavelength range, for those of the coat on another mirror. c) Tapering the coat on each mirror. Optimization could involve the choice of a single dielectric coating material and its thickness, or design of a more complex coat consisting of multiple layers of different dielectric materials and possibly some metallic materials. Such designs and coatings are particularly significant and needed for obtaining very high quality of wavefront required in high-contrast imaging instruments such as the NASA Terrestrial Planet Finder Coronagraph.

Balasubramanian, Kunjithapatham↗