M1 Ariel space mission, measurement campaign

In one of  the laboratories of the FERRET team of INAF Astrophysical Observatory of Arcetri, during the summer and part of the spring, a long measurement campaign took place on the M1 primary mirror of the ARIEL space mission. Although it was the structural model of the mirror, which is not normally used to carry out optical tests, given the high degree of innovation inherent in the project, it had been appropriately worked on so that it could also be used to carry out optical tests. 
Using a new interferometer, financed with part of the funds allocated ad hoc by ASI for this activity, we proceeded with the study of a large mirror (1.2x0.75 m) made of aluminium.

Many results were obtained, among which the development of the fixing procedure of the mirror itself, its handling and finally the demonstration that through a system that allows the mirror to be overturned, a measurement of the shape of the surface can be achieved optical as if the mirror were in the absence of gravity, net of measurement errors and systematic errors.
This gave the opportunity to develop a fork system that will be used by the Prime Contractor (Leonardo Finmeccanica Spa and Media LarioSrl) for the processing and assembly of the mirror on the payload. 
This mechanical system was entirely developed and created at the Arcetri workshop with the support of INAF-Palermo and the DIEF-UniFi of Florence

Personnel involved: Andrea Tozzi (coordinator), Paolo Picchi (ARIEL Telescope Assembly SE), Enzo Pascale (ARIEL Mission Scientist), Andrea Bocchieri (ARIEL Telescope Scientist), Antonio Scippa and Riccardo Lilli (FEA analysis), Fabio D'Anca (Mech. Designer), Gilberto Falcini and Luca Carbonaro (Mechanical workshop).

Greetings: this activity was made possible by a specific loan from ASI.

Ariel space mission: https://arielmission.space

Press: RAI TgR Toscana 08.06.2024 | Lo specchio di Arcetri per scovare gli esopianeti (5’15”)