In 1960, R.E. Kalman published his famous paper describing a recursive solution to the discrete-data linear filtering problem. Since that time, due in large part to advances in digital computing, the Kalman filter has been the subject of extensive research and application, particularly in the area of autonomous or assisted navigation.

A method for calculating the actuator influence functions of an active mirror is described. The method is based on a model of the mirror as a thin plate attached by actuators to a very stiff reaction structure. Arbitrary actuator layouts can be handled. The mirror deflections calculated agree well with the results of a finite element analysis of the structure.

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