Large Mirror Polishing and Figuring

Abstract

The fabrication of the next class large aperture telesopes will require techniques which must be extrapolated from current experience. The areas of substrate support, optical testing, and figuring strategy needs to be modified or extended to handle the 7 to 8 m diameter aspheric primary mirrors. This paper discusses the application of advanced optical testing techniques to the large optical paths and the extension of existing aspheric figuring techniques to assure a smooth surface.