Hybrid dynamic structures for optical-quality surfaces shape control: live-mirror
Abstract
Optical communication and remote sensing (on the ground and in space) including astronomy requesting high-dynamic range observations are the next frontiers in high-bandwidth communication and civil space surveillance technologies. Each requires very precise glass mirror technology, which has not kept pace with corresponding optical and infrared sensor advances. Consequently communication and remote sensing systems are currently limited by the cost and manufacturing restrictions of their high-quality optics. We are developing a new and interdisciplinary technology for creating extremely lightweight diffractionlimited meta-material-based optical systems with exceptional optical quality spectacularly lower cost and production time — Live-Mirror. Notably such new technology is crucial to the development of dedicated high angular resolution and high-contrast telescope concept - The ExoLife Finder (ELF) Telescope - to the exoplanets studies and related science such as detecting life and even civilizations on Earth-like planets.
- Publication:
-
Quantum Sensing and Nano Electronics and Photonics XVI
- Pub Date:
- April 2019
- DOI:
- 10.1117/12.2511625
- Bibcode:
- 2019SPIE10926E..1XM