M2 Unit
The M2 Unit consists of a rigid mechanical structure connected to the telescope spiders. An outline of the Hexapod arrangement can be seen below. During observations it will be possible to move the mirror in discrete steps under the command of the Telescope Control System in order to maintain the optical alignment of the telescope. The M2 Unit mechanism achieves this by adjusting the position of the M2 Mirror around two axis orthogonal to the mirror optical axis as well as along the optical axis. The use of flexures in the design solution will help the linear response and thus the repeatability of this high precision system whilst the hexapod arrangement offers a high level of control.
General View of M2 Unit Hexapod Arrangement
21 September 2004 MIP01 Complete
(main sub assemblies delivered and inspected)
The pictures show two of the major items for MIP01 in different stages of fabrication and inspection.
M2 Unit Mobile Plate
Above is the M2U mobile plate to which is attached the M2 Assembly.
Below is the M2 unit fixed plate and cover/ baffle support. The M2U fixed plate is attached to the Telescope Structure.
M2 Unit Fixed Plate
13 October 2004 Progress towards MIP02
(M2U fully assembled)
M2 Unit During Assembly
The M2 Unit in an advanced state of assembly is shown in the following picture. The next major milestone is the Manufacturing Inspection Point 02 which is a fully assembled M2U in it’s test stand ready to commence calibration and verification testing.