Active Optics System (Mostly Obsolete)
This page is obsolete.
The Blanco Telescope is equipped with an active optics system in which variable pressure is applied to the rear surface of the primary mirror via 33 pads. This system can modify the figure of the primary to improve image quality. Normally, the the calibration of this system is verified and, if necessary, modified using ImAn every few months.
The primary mirror is supported radially by 24 lever arms articulated to push on the mirror from below and to pull on it from above. These are not normally adjustable.
Note: the primary mirror and f/8 secondary mirror active controls have been upgraded as of 2014, these documents apply to the old system. Contact CTIO staff for up to date documentation.
The pages related to this one are:
- Short instructions for normal use (obsolete?)
- User's Guide for Active Optic System (obsolete?)
- F/8 Secondary Mirror Control System (obsolete?)
- 4m Active Primary Mirror Control System (obsolete)
- Calibrations Positions for 4MAP lookup tables (obsolete)
- The RCADC and Atmospheric Refraction
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