Ultra-Lightweight Telescopes and Precision Pointers as Enabling Technologies for Small, Low Cost Missions

Ultra-Lightweight Telescopes and Precision Pointers as Enabling Technologies for Small, Low Cost Missions

Very high precision, lightweight optical pointing devices, in conjunction with ultra lightweight telescope assemblies are enabling technologies for small, low cost space missions. Lightweight pointing mirror technologies enable very accurate optical pointing and tracking from very low cost satellite platforms. These platforms do not provide a stable pointing platform. High bandwidth, servo controlled pointers compensate for the platform instabilities. A new generation of high bandwidth, very precise pointers are possible because of very low mass mirrors made from silicon carbide (SiC), aluminum or beryllium and ultraprecise optical fringe counting encoders. Silicon carbide pointing mirrors are very attractive because of their extreme thermal stability. This allows operation over large temperature ranges and gradients. SSG has developed a range of very lightweight telescope systems for DOD and NASA missions. These systems are applicable to small space platforms with minimal weight impact, thus enabling a new generation of very cost effective missions not yet achieved.