Imaging satellite having mirror formed from liquid and two-axis rotational configuration
US11604289B2 · kind B2 · utility
0Cited by
4References
22Claims
0Family size
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 2, 2020 |
| Grant date | Mar 14, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 24, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/2226
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A satellite with a primary imaging mirror fabricated while in space is described. The primary mirror is formed by solidifying liquid precursor material which assumes a paraboloid shape upon certain rotational maneuvers of the satellite. The primary mirror is preferably formed from a molten metal which creates a rigid paraboloid primary mirror upon solidification. The mirror material can be pre-melted prior to launch and carried to orbit while liquid, or it can be stored as a solid and melted in space to create the mirror.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.