Document Astronomy with High Contrast Imaging
C. Aime and R. Soummer (eds)
EAS Publications Series, Vol. 8, 2003
DOI: 10.1051/eas:2003070
MOEMS, the new deformable mirrors for Adaptive Optics
F. ZamkotsianLaboratoire d'Astrophysique de Marseille, 2 place Leverrier, 13248 Marseille Cedex 4, France Frederic.Zamkotsian@oamp.fr
Abstract
Highly performing adaptive optical systems are required for next
generation giant telescopes as well as next generation
instrumentation for 10 m-class telescopes. Different types of AO
systems are currently under study, including Multi-Conjugate AO
(MCAO), high dynamic range AO, and low-order AO for distributed
partial correction AO. These systems require a large variety of
deformable mirrors with very challenging parameters. The
development of new technologies based on
micro-opto-electro-mechanical systems (MOEMS) is promising for
future deformable mirrors. We are currently developing a MDM based
on an array of electrostatic actuators with attachments to a
continuous mirror on top. The most challenging building block for
this device is the high optical quality mirror. Our first results
show a very efficient planarization of the surface with our
design. The integration of this mirror surface on top of an
actuator array is under investigation.
© EAS, EDP Sciences 2003