A Symposium on Support and Testing of Large Astronomical Mirrors

Abstract

This symposium was co- sponsored by the Kitt Peak National Observatory (Dr. D. L. Crawford) and the Optical Sciences Center and Steward Observatory of the University of Arizona (Dr. A. B. Meinel). The idea grew from the recognition of the many common problems that were being faced by national and international groups in the engineering of large telescopes. The divergences of opinions and designs in regard to the nature of large astronomical mirrors, and their mounting and testing, made it evident that an exchange of ideas would be profitable to all of the groups. The meeting was organized and chaired by D. L.Crawford and A. B. Meinel. Special commendation is also due to R. H. Noble of the Optical Sciences Center for managing the numerous arrangements that contributed to making this a well-attended and successful symposium. The original intent of the symposium was merely to provide a face-to-face exchange of ideas. In retrospect, however, it was realized that the meeting constituted a milestone in large telescope design, and it was decided to edit the recording tapes and publish the proceedings. The task of transcribing the tapes fell to Patricia Grames and Evelyn Brant, with assistance in technical content from Earl Pearson of Kitt Peak National Observatory. In several cases the presentations atthe symposium led to continuing discussion. In particular,the papers by Bleich and Schwesinger led to a spirited exchange in which considerable enlightenment resulted. We have decided not to include these supplemental contributions, both because they transpired outside the format of this meeting and in view of their intent to publish elsewhere. The editorial task undertaken by Martha Stockton was immense and was impeded by prior responsibilities of all the persons involved. We are pleased to now conclude the report. We hope that readers will find this volume a useful addition to the limited available works on the topic of the design and testing of large astronomical telescopes. A. B. Meinel D. L. Crawford