Abstract

The next generation of infrared - sub mm space telescopes requires some reflectors with large dimensions and high quality. These ones, according to weight issues, are based on composite materials for which the behaviors at low temperatures are badly known. A holographic interferometry method for the verification and validation of this type of reflectors in a space environment is presented. It is based on a dynamic holographic camera observing a diffuser illuminated by the object beam coming from the reflecting surface. Photorefractive crystals being self-processing and reusable mediums, the measuring range of the holographic camera is increased with respect to other optical interferometric methods. The metrological certification of the whole system was realised by the measurement of a parabolic antenna with a 1.1 meter diameter, a known behavior and placed in a simulated space environment.

© 2005 Optical Society of America