Optimization Design of Large-Aperture Primary Mirror for a Space Remote Camera

Abstract

Lightweight, high stability, and high-temperature adaptability are the primary considerations when designing the primary mirror of a micro/nano satellite remote sensing camera. In this paper, the optimized design and experimental verification of the large-aperture primary mirror of the space camera with a diameter of Φ610 mm is carried out. First, the design performance index of the primary mirror was determined according to the coaxial tri-reflective optical imaging system. Then, SiC, with excellent comprehensive performance, was selected as the primary mirror material. The initial structural parameters of the primary mirror were obtained using the traditional empirical design method. Due to the improvement of SiC material casting complex structure reflector technology level, the initial structure of the primary mirror was improved by integrating the flange with the primary mirror body design. The support force acts directly on the flange, changing the transmission path of the traditional back plate support force, and has the advantage that the primary mirror surface shape accuracy can be maintained for a long time when subjected to shock, vibration, and temperature changes. Then, a parametric optimization algorithm based on the mathematical method of compromise programming was used to optimize the design of the initial structural parameters of the improved primary mirror and the flexible hinge, and finite element simulation was conducted on the optimally designed primary mirror assembly. Simulation results show that the root mean square (RMS) surface error is less than λ/50 (λ = 632.8 nm) under gravity, 4 °C temperature rise, and 0.01 mm assembly error. The mass of the primary mirror is 8.66 kg. The maximum displacement of the primary mirror assembly is less than 10 μm, and the maximum inclination angle is less than 5″. The fundamental frequency is 203.74 Hz. Finally, after the primary mirror assembly was precision manufactured and assembled, the surface shape accuracy of the primary mirror was tested by ZYGO interferometer, and the test value was 0.02 λ. The vibration test of the primary mirror assembly was conducted at a fundamental frequency of 208.25 Hz. This simulation and experimental results show that the optimized design of the primary mirror assembly meets the design requirements of the space camera.