Project background
The Earth observation satellites are now based on more and more efficient optical components to obtain highly accurate images of our environment.
Thales Alenia Space is in charge of the high-resolution optical instrument of a new generation of observation satellites.
CUSTOMER REQUEST
Thales Alenia Space has to adjust a secondary mirror during its integration on a satellite using five degrees of freedom (Tx, Ty, Tz, Rx, Ry) with high accuracy.
Bertin Technologies is responsible for the adjustment bench of the secondary mirror (M2) and selected Symetrie’s technical proposal for the hexapod that adjusts the M2.
This solution based on a 3-meter-height hexapod is a technological breakthrough compared to traditional mounting and test equipment used in the space industry.
Project specifications
■ Environment: high vacuum (10-6 mbar) and class 100 cleanroom
■ Payload capacity: 250 kg
■ Resolution: less than 1 µm (linear) and 2 µrad (angular)
■ Cross-coupling: less than 1 µm and 1 µrad
■ Thermomechanical stability and rigidity