Effects of the lunar environment on optical telescopes and instruments

Charles L. Johnson; Kurtis L. Dietz

doi:10.1117/12.46726

1 September 1991 Effects of the lunar environment on optical telescopes and instruments

Charles L. Johnson, Kurtis L. Dietz

Proceedings Volume 1494, Space Astronomical Telescopes and Instruments; (1991) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.46726
Event: Orlando '91, 1991, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

The effects of the hostile lunar environment are assessed, and potential techniques for adverse-effect mitigation are developed. The environmental concerns addressed include Galactic cosmic ray (GCR) effects on telescope electronics, lunar dust obscuration and damage to optical surfaces, and micrometeor cratering of the optics and support structure. The feasibility of shielding the electronics from the GCR flux and associated secondaries is investigated as one option for noise reduction. An alternative approach to noise reduction uses shorter integration ties and multiple images for background subtraction. Dust abatement techniques such as stabilizing the lunar soil at the launch and telescope sites and covering the optics during high contamination-risk times are evaluated. The micrometeorite flux and associated surface cratering are assessed for their impact on the lifetime and integrity of the telescope.

Citation Download Citation

Charles L. Johnson and Kurtis L. Dietz "Effects of the lunar environment on optical telescopes and instruments", Proc. SPIE 1494, Space Astronomical Telescopes and Instruments, (1 September 1991); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.46726

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