Precision Optics Manufacturing and Control for Next-Generation Large Telescopes

Next-generation astronomical telescopes will offer unprecedented observational and scientific capabilities to look deeper into the heavens, observe closer in time to the epoch of the Big Bang, and resolve finer details of phenomena throughout the universe. The science case for this next generation of observatories is clear, with science goals such as the discovery and exploration of extrasolar planets, exploration of dark matter and dark energy, the formation and evolution of planets, stars, galaxies, and detailed studies of the Sun. Enabling breakthrough astronomical goals requires novel and cutting-edge design choices at all stages of telescope manufacturing. In this paper, we discuss the integrated design and manufacturing of the next-generation large telescopes, from the optical design to enclosures required for optimal performance.

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