Advanced Fabrication Method for Corrective Telescope Optics

Abstract

Corrective optics for aberrated telescope systems are a relatively inexpensive way to improve image performance. Both refractive and reflective corrective components may be used. Work is currently being performed on the fabrication of the Corrective Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement, COSTAR, program. This paper discusses the fabrication methods used to produce the non-spherical COSTAR optics. The overall fabrication strategy is presented first followed by a detailed discussion on the polishing approaches. Finally, metrology results and convergence data of the polishing process are presented.