Precision segmented reflector, figure verification sensor

The Precision Segmented Reflector (PSR) program currently under way at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a test bed and technology demonstration program designed to develop and study the structural and material technologies required for lightweight, precision segmented reflectors. A Figure Verification Sensor (FVS) which is designed to monitor the active control system of the segments is described, a best fit surface is defined, and an image or wavefront quality of the assembled array of reflecting panels is assesse

Design and implementation of the NUV/optical widefield Star Formation Camera for the Theia Observatory

The Star Formation Camera (SFC) is a wide-field (~19'×~15', >280 arcmin^2), high-resolution (18 mas pixels) UV/optical dichroic camera designed for the Theia 4-m space-borne space telescope concept. SFC will deliver diffraction-limited images at λ > 300 nm in both a blue (190-517nm) and a red (517-1075nm) channel simultaneously. The goal is to conduct a comprehensive and systematic study of the astrophysical processes and environments relevant for the births and life cycles of stars and their planetary systems, and to investigate the range of environments, feedback mechanisms, and other factors that most affect the outcome of star and planet formation