Dynamic analysis of the activley controlled segmented mirror of the W. M. Keck ten-meter telescope

The W. M. Keck Observatory and Telescope are presently under construction on Mauna Kea, Hawaii. When completed in 1990, the telescope will be the world's largest instrument for astronomical observations at visible and infrared wavelengths. The primary mirror has a diameter of 10 m and consists of a mosaic of 36 hexagonal segments, with the orientation of each segment actively controlled. This paper presents an analysis of the dynamic interaction between the segment control system and the telescope structure. Results from computer simulations show improvement in image quality achieved by the control system in response to environmental wind disturbances.