The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is getting closer to reality, thanks to innovative engineering. To ensure the telescope's massive mirror works flawlessly, we've developed a new tool called the SMATT. This high-tech device tests individual mirror segments support assemblies, making sure they function perfectly before they're assembled into the final mirror. By testing each assembly early on, we save time and resources, and ultimately, bring the TMT closer to first light.
TMT’s 30 meter primary mirror is made up of 492 individually mounted hexagonal mirrors. Each mirror segment is integrated to a Segment Support Assembly (SSA) which, once in place on the telescope, keeps them mounted to the mirror cell and acting as if they were one mirror. There are 21 actuators in each SSA that must be tested to ensure they work properly and don’t put undue stress on the mirrors. To test this, TIO developed the SMATT — which stands for the SSA Module Assembly Test Tool. By using this tool, each new SSA can be tested to ensure they are assembled correctly, the actuators and electronics work, and that the force provided is acceptable. By testing each SSA as they are made, TIO gets a head start in ensuring the functionality of the final primary mirror when all 492 mirrors are installed. This particular SMATT is being shipped to India, where colleagues there will use it to test the SSAs they are producing.
A timelapse video of the integration of the SMATT. Click on the image to see the video.
The timelapse video above shows the installation of the SSA onto the SMATT, prior to testing. The next video shows the testing where various actuators are actuated and their forces measured at both 0° and 90° rotation.
A timelapse video of the testing of the SMATT. Click on the image to see the video.
Congrats to the SMATT team for developing this tool to help ensure the final mirror assembly goes well!
TIO's Staff at the SHPE
TIO Staff Provides Hands-on Activties at the EYU Event