Space-based visible all-reflective stray light telescope

A 6-inch diameter aperture space-based visible telescope has been optimized to perform surveillance against the space background with earth albedo as a primary source of straylight. A three mirror off-axis anastigmat has been designed to cover a 1.4 degree(s) by 6.6 degree(s) field- of-view with 60 (mu) radian spatial resolution. The telescope body and optics are constructed of 6061-T6 aluminum to provide a thermally stable optical system. The optical elements are 'superfinished' to minimize scatter. Extensive baffles and stops are utilized to further reduce straylight. The telescope will be used on the Midcourse Space Experiment platform.