SUAVE, a disruptive far UV telescope designed for long lasting performances in space

Abstract

SUAVE (Solar Ultraviolet Advanced Variability Experiment) is a far UV imaging solar telescope (Lyman Alpha, 121.6 nm, Herzberg continuum, 200-242 nm, etc.) of novel design (off-axis telescope with "mushroom type" SiC mirrors) for ultimate thermal stability and long lasting performances over years instead of, often, a few weeks or months in this wavelength range. SUAVE has no entrance window for long and uncompromising observations in the UV (no coatings of mirrors, flux limited to less than 2 solar constants on filters to avoid their degradation), associated with an ultimate thermal control (no central obscuration resulting in limited thermal gradients and easier heat evacuation, focus control, stabilization). Design and anticipated performances will be detailed as well as results of representative thermal/optical tests performed on the SiC primary mirror and support regulated plate (SiC also). SUAVE is the main instrument of the Solar/Climate SoSWEET-SOUP constellation mission.