SOAR primary mirror active support system

SOAR primary mirror active support system

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In a tense but well-orchestrated maneuver, the primary mirror for the SOuthern Astrophysical Research (SOAR) telescope is carefully installed on its active support system for the first time. In this picture it is possible to appreciate the thinness (10 centimeters) of the 4.3-meter diameter ULE glass face sheet. The 120 electromechanical actuators attached to the reaction structure maintain the correct surface figure as the telescope points around the sky.

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