Novel technologies for large deformable mirrors

We have been developing a series of novel technological solutions to address the challenges posed by the adaptive optic requirements for extremely large telescopes. Our deformable mirror surface material, a compliant from of silicon carbide, offers a Young's Modulus comparable to glass but with greater, non-catastrophic, resistance to fracture. In combination with the extraordinary new material we have been working on a new low power actuator with a deflection capability of tens of microns. We have considered the systems requirements for our deformable mirror and developed both a coating technology and a unique use of hydroxide catalysis bonding.