The Largest Eye That Humankind Has Cast into the Heavens

Abstract

AbstractThe resolution of earthbound telescopes can be improved by large primary mirrors, which can only be realized as segmented mirrors. In order for these giant mirrors to maintain their form despite the wind load and the effect of gravity, their individual segments require stiff drives that work with a large travel on the one hand and allow nanometer‐precise positioning on the other. So‐called hybrid drives that combine a spindle‐motor drive with a piezoelectric actuator are the optimum choice for meeting these requirements.