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Space Telescope Mirror Mount

Space Systems Integrator, USA, California

A space systems integrator required an Invar 36 mirror mounting structure for space telescope. PiPrecision delivered precision machining with slow-speed strategies and cryogenic stress relief, achieving <1 ppm/°C CTE stability and 0.5 μm flatness over 300mm, passing thermal vacuum testing and qualifying for space flight.

<1 ppm/°C
CTE Stability
0.5μm/300mm
Flatness
TVAC Pass
Testing
Flight Qual
Status

The Challenge

The space telescope application required Invar 36 material for low CTE, <1 ppm/°C thermal stability, 0.5 μm flatness over 300mm, space-qualified construction, and qualification for 15-year orbital lifetime.

Our Solution

Precision machining with slow-speed strategies to minimize heat input, cryogenic stress relief, precision grinding and lapping, extensive CTE verification, and thermal vacuum testing for space qualification.

The Results

CTE stability <1 ppm/°C achieved, 0.5 μm flatness specification met, passed thermal vacuum testing, qualified for space flight, awarded follow-on contract, structure exceeded all specifications.

Project Gallery

cnc, optics, precision, rapid prototype

Project Info

Industry
Optics
Service
CNC Milling Service
Client
Space Systems Integrator
Location
USA, California
Completed
November 2024

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