Framework for multidisciplinary integrated modeling and analysis of space telescopes

This paper presents a comprehensive framework for integrated modeling, simulation and analysis of optical telescopes. This framework is called DOCS (Dynamics-Optics-Controls-Structures) and supports model development, model integration, analysis and multidisciplinary design optimization of this class of precision opto-mechanical systems. First the research background and literature in this young filed is discussed. Next the structure and nominal process of an integrated modeling, simulation and analysis study for a generic optical telescope using the DOCS framework is discussed in detail. The major steps include subsystems modeling, model assembly, model reduction and conditioning, initial performance assessment, sensitivity analysis, uncertainty analysis, redesign, design optimization and isoperformance analysis. Such a comprehensive analysis is demonstrated for the NEXUS Space Telescope precursor mission. This mission was designed as a technology testbed for the Next Generation Space Telescope. The challenge is to achieve a very tight pointing accuracy with a sub-pixel line-of-sight (LOS) jitter budget and a root-mean-square (RMS) wavefront error smaller than λ/50 despite the presence of electronic and mechanical disturbance sources. The framework suggested in this paper has the potential for becoming a general prescription for analyzing future, innovative telescope projects. Significant challenges remain in enabling fast simulations for large models, analytical sensitivity analysis for all sub-models, incorporation of slow-varying thermal or impulsive transient effects and the effective use of experimental results.