This work was done by Alex Abramovici and Randall K. Bartman of Caltech for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. NPO-47530
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Metrology Arrangement for Measuring the Positions of Mirrors of a Submillimeter Telescope
(reference NPO-47530) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) that details a Metrology Arrangement designed for measuring the positions of mirrors in a submillimeter telescope. This arrangement is crucial for ensuring the precision and accuracy of telescope operations, which are essential for astronomical observations.
The document outlines the collaborative efforts between NASA and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), emphasizing the research sponsored by NASA. It includes technical specifications and methodologies employed in the metrology arrangement, particularly focusing on the primary-secondary relative position measurement system.
One of the key components discussed is the Four-Beam Metrology Arrangement, which utilizes a transceiver and a 2-D camera to measure mirror positions. This system is designed to achieve high precision, which is vital for the performance of submillimeter telescopes that operate at very high frequencies and require meticulous alignment of their optical components.
Additionally, the document describes a Laser Ranging Unit based on the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) transceiver principles. This unit employs a 100 MHz modulation carried by a collimated laser beam to measure phase changes as the laser travels to a target and back. The phase change is determined by timing the zero-crossing of the RF modulation, allowing for high-resolution measurements. The document notes that the least significant bit (LSB) resolution is approximately 0.015 mm, with a one-sigma resolution of less than 0.005 mm, showcasing the system's capability to perform measurements with exceptional accuracy.
The Technical Support Package also serves as a resource for further information regarding research and technology in this area, providing contact details for the Innovative Technology Assets Management at JPL. It emphasizes the importance of compliance with U.S. export regulations and the proprietary nature of the information contained within the document.
Overall, this document highlights significant advancements in metrology technology that have implications not only for astronomical research but also for broader technological, scientific, and commercial applications. It reflects NASA's commitment to innovation and collaboration in the field of aerospace technology.
