Abstract
The Large Active Mirrors in Aluminum Project (LAMA) is intended as a metallic alternative to the conventional glass mirrors. This alternative is to bring about definite improvements in terms of lower cost, shorter manufacturing, and reduced brittleness. Combined in a system approach that integrates design, development, and manufacturing of both the aluminum meniscus and its active support, the LAMA project is a technologically consistent product for astronomical and laser telescopes. Large size mirrors can be delivered, up to 8 m diameter. Recent progress in active optics makes possible control, as well as real-time adjustment, of a metallic mirror's deformations, especially those induced by temperature variations and/or aging. It also enables correction of whatever low-frequency surface waves escaped polishing. Besides, the manufacturing process to produce the aluminum segments together with the electron welding technique ensure the material's homogeneity. Quality of the surface condition will result from optimized implementation of the specific aluminum machining and polishing techniques. This paper highlights the existing aluminum realizations compared to glass mirrors, and gives the main results obtained during a feasibility demonstration phase, based on 8 m mirror requirements.
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