Optimization Framework for Large Space-Based Telescopes
Name
IEEE_Aerospace_2021__Optimization_Framework_for_Large_Space_Based_Telescopes-Accepted.pdf
Size
2.07 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
1cc508024e0797aef13bf4080873657a
Author(s)
de Freitas Bart, Ryan
Davidson, Rosemary
Fifield, Michael
Hoffman, Jeffrey
Date Issued
March 6, 2021
Journal
2021 IEEE Aerospace Conference (50100)
Publisher
IEEE
Citation
de Freitas Bart, Ryan, Davidson, Rosemary, Fifield, Michael and Hoffman, Jeffrey. 2021. "Optimization Framework for Large Space-Based Telescopes." 2021 IEEE Aerospace Conference (50100).
Version
Author's final manuscript
Abstract
The need for telescopes with more light-gathering capability can be seen in both space-based and ground-based missions and mission proposals that trend towards larger primary aperture diameters. Advances in angular resolution and signal-to-noise ratio can allow for direct imaging of exoplanets, and the ability to characterize planetary systems orbiting nearby stars. However, the sizes of space-based telescopes are currently limited by launch vehicle fairing sizes and the state of in-space assembly technology. This work analyzes the trade-space of in-space assembled telescopes to determine optimal architectures which can push current technological limits and maximize utility to science. Relative complexity and science value objectives are used to quantify the benefit of each design, and a Pareto front is generated, which has two distinct areas of optimal designs. The findings suggest the optimal designs with a smaller diameter and wider field of view are indicative of `all-sky surveyors', while the optimal designs with larger diameters and focal ratios may be used for observing smaller areas with higher resolution.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics
Persistent DSpace Link
DOI of Published Version
https://doi.org/10.1109/aero50100.2021.9438395
