SiC Optical Telescope for Next Generation Midcourse Interceptors

"Advanced seeker systems for endo- and exo-atmospheric applications will utilize infrared and visible signature of ballistic threats in addition to LADAR ranging and imaging information for improved identification, discrimination and tracking. This futurecapability requires diffraction limited near visible performance for the optical system, while still maintaining the low cost production capability of a bolt together assembly. Presently, optical telescopes for seekers utilize Be mirrors and structure forlightweight IR performance, however, these systems have limited use for future active/passive seekers because of the unstable anistropic performance of Be at visible quality levels. SSGPO proposes a highly innovative development of a low cost, thermallystable visible telescope system based on two key enabling technologies; (1) a SiC based telescope system providing very lightweight and stiff construction; inherent athermal operation over wide temperature ranges; superior thermal stability; and a very lowcost, near net shape castable fabrication technique compatible with high rate production; (2) a set of automated finishing processes which are capable of direct mirror figuring to visible performance while maintaining control of optical parameters relativeto mechanical fiducials to permit bolt-together alignment. In Phase I, SSGPO proposes to develop the advanced SiC telescope design and fabrication approach, which leverages off an