Paper
14 November 1977 Large, Lightweight, Replicated Mirrors
Wilkie Talbert
Author Affiliations +
Abstract
Replication of large scale optical quality mirrors has been demonstrated to be feasible for the first time in recent development work by Talbert Reflectors. This paper traces the stages of the development process from the author's first thoughts about large lightweight mirrors through pilot production of flight simulator mirrors. Large scale surfaces are possible because high vacuum is not required for fabrication of the optical surface. Sizes to 10 by 14 feet are feasible. Surface shapes are relatively unrestricted--spheric or off-axis aspheric shapes can be produced. Surface accuracies of 0.5 arc minutes per foot slo, e error have been achieved. Surface accuracy testing experience includes investigation of edge trimming, iamage, and creep effects. Lightness in weight and great rigidity are accomplished at relatively low cost by use of an aluminum honeycomb/epoxy-fiberglass substrate. Structural and thermal characteristics can be designed for specific applications. Standard optical coatings may be applied. A recent aluminum coating with an enhanced sili con dioxide overcoat measured 92% at 5500 A and passes both tape and cheesecloth abrasion tests. Applications include flight simulator displays, visual and TV projection systems, solar energy collectors, IR laser systems, millimeter and submillimeter radio reflectors.
© (1977) COPYRIGHT Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Wilkie Talbert "Large, Lightweight, Replicated Mirrors", Proc. SPIE 0115, Advances in Replicated and Plastic Optics, (14 November 1977); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.955624
Advertisement
Advertisement
RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS
Get copyright permission  Get copyright permission on Copyright Marketplace
KEYWORDS
Reflectors

Mirrors

Epoxies

Surface finishing

Reflectivity

Polishing

Lightweight mirrors

RELATED CONTENT

Recent developments in composite-based optics
Proceedings of SPIE (August 28 1998)
Mirror replication technique
Proceedings of SPIE (November 11 1999)
Light Weight Optics Prepared By Replication
Proceedings of SPIE (July 05 1989)
Fabrication of high-quality cavity mirror
Proceedings of SPIE (October 06 2000)
Fabrication Of A Metal-Matrix Composite Mirror
Proceedings of SPIE (January 29 1989)

Back to Top