A design study of mirror modules and an assembly based on the slumped glass for an Athena-like optics

Date Issued
2015
Author(s)
•
•
•
Buratti, Enrico
•
Eder, Josef
•
Friedrich, Peter
•
Fürmetz, Maria
DOI
Abstract
The Athena mission was selected for the second large-class mission, due for launch in 2028, in ESA's Cosmic Vision program. The current solution for the optics is based on the Silicon Pore Optics (SPO) technology with the goal of 2m2 effective area at 1keV (aperture about 3m diameter) with a focal length of 12m. The SPO advantages are the compactness along the axial direction and the high conductivity of the Silicon. Recent development in the fabrication of mirror shells based on the Slumped Glass Optics (SGO) makes this technology an attractive solution for the mirror modules for Athena or similar telescopes. The SGO advantages are a potential high collecting area with a limited vignetting due to the lower shadowing and the aptitude to curve the glass plates up to small radius of curvature. This study shows an alternative mirror design based on SGO technology, tailored for Athena needs. The main challenges are the optimization of the manufacturing technology with respect to the required accuracy and the thermal control of the large surface in conjunction with the low conductivity of the glass. A concept has been elaborated which considers the specific benefits of the SGO technology and provides an efficient thermal control. The output of the study is a preliminary design substantiated by analyses and technological studies. The study proposes interfaces and predicts performances and budgets. It describes also how such a mirror system could be implemented as a modular assembly for X-ray telescope with a large collecting area.
Coverage
Optics for EUV, X-Ray, and Gamma-Ray Astronomy VII
All editors
O'Dell, Stephen L.; Pareschi, Giovanni
Series
Volume
9603
Start page
96030N
Conferenece
SPIE Optical Engineering + Applications
Conferenece place
San Diego, CA, USA
Conferenece date
9-13 August, 2015
Uri
Url
Issn Identifier
0277-786X
Ads BibCode
2015SPIE.9603E..0NB
Rights
open.access
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