Experiences with large CFRP-radiotelescope reflectors
Abstract
Since 1986 several ground based 15 m radiotelescopes with CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic) structures and reflector panels are under operation in the millimeter wavelength range. A new submillimeter telescope with 10 m diameter is under manufacture. Analysis and design, manufacturing and qualification show the advantages of CFRP. While the assembled dishes have accuracies of some 50 micrometers rms the mean value of about 1000 panels was measured to 12 micrometer rms. These results show the possibilities of manufacturing large space based antennae with the required accuracies for millimeter and submillimeter operations.
- Publication:
-
ESA Special Publication
- Pub Date:
- October 1991
- Bibcode:
- 1991ESASP.321..907M
- Keywords:
-
- Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics;
- Composite Structures;
- Millimeter Waves;
- Radio Telescopes;
- Reflector Antennas;
- Structural Design;
- Submillimeter Waves;
- Manufacturing;
- Panels;
- Struts;
- Communications and Radar