Advanced SiC Mirror Subsystem for STSS

Advancement of lower cost advanced optical telescopes for cryogenic applications will be accomplished through an increased understanding of the manufacture of silicon carbide structures as well as mirrors. The POCO SuperSiCT-1 manufacturing process enables both mirrors and optical benches to be made using the same manufacturing process. One unknown in the assembly of mirrors and optical benches is detailed engineering design of the attachment interface between the mirror and bench. This Phase I effort seeks to evaluate innovative attachment concepts that will lead to the full-scale silicon carbide telescope to meet STSS requirements. A test mirror and structure will be manufactured, then tested at cryogenic conditions to determine stresses induced by attachment of the mirror to the mount test article. This evaluation has not been undertaken before.