An integrated simulation model of the Euro50

Abstract:
The Euro50 is a proposed optical telescope with an equivalent aperture of 50 m. It will have a segmented primary mirror and full adaptive optics. To study the interaction of the telescope structure, the control system and the optics, an integrated simulation model has been formulated. The mechanical model is a modal version of an Ansys finite element model. The optics model is based on ray tracing and physical optics. The segments model takes the alignment servos and the segment dynamics into account. Wind variation over the primary mirror is included. Segment control system modeling is in progress. First results clearly demonstrate that a good enclosure is needed to protect the telescope well against wind. The results also suggest that the segment alignment system must have a bandwidth well above the lowest eigenfrequencies of the telescope.