Iso-static mirror supports vs. homologue reflectors: a comparison

Optical telescope engineers use since more than 150 years iso-static supporting systems for their large primary mirrors. Radio telescope engineers use since about 50 years homologue principles for their large reflector backup structures. There is obviously some methodological affinity between both principles. Looking into the papers of the inventors and their disciples shows, that none of them did recognize the work of the neighborly discipline. The paper compares both principles by comparing the related structural analysis algorithms and gives hints for creative use of these insights for the design of new optical mirror or radio reflector supports.