Custom Telescopes

We have the experience and expertise to advise on systems engineering and conceptual design of custom telescopes for unique and demanding applications.

We can assist in requirements definition, translating science requirements to telescope specifications, proposal and grant writing, and complete system design and analysis. Some examples of our services include:

• Assisting the Associated Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) with preparation of their Design and Development Phase proposal to the National Science Foundation for the 4 meter Advanced Technology Solar Telescope (ATST). This involved development of conceptual designs for possible configuration for a large aperture solar telescope, identification of key system trade studies, and writing of the telescope sections of the proposal. Later, we were retained to review and critique major subsystem design specifications, and attended conceptual design reviews.

• Studying the feasibility of building a wide field prime focus corrector for a 4-meter class telescope. The design study required the development of candidate optical and mechanical designs, as well as providing cost and delivery information.

• Analyzing options for refurbishment and upgrade of existing telescopes and facilities for deep space optical communication with spacecraft.

• Conducting additional studies comparing options and configurations for space surveillance systems, high energy laser defense systems, astronomical telescope arrays, facilities for extreme or remote environments, and specialized optical fabrication.