Design of the Large Telescope Structure & Optics, and component Prototyping
This work is concerned with the evaluation of design options, and with
the detailed design and prototyping of critical components of the
large-sized telescope (LST) of 24 m class. To achieve the goal of good
sensitivity in the energy domain of some 10 GeV, a highly cost-effective
design for a very large telescope structure is needed. Early in the
Preparatory Phase, we will investigate design options for the structure,
with a focus on finite element calculations for different concepts to
investigate scaling laws for cost versus size and to identify critical
mechanical components. Following these results, and in accordance with
the system and sub-system specifications and requirements, detailed
design work on a chosen concept will be performed. Prototypes for
critical mechanical components, as well as of the drive system, mirror
alignment system and large sub-assemblies will be built in order to
verify their properties and to derive detailed cost estimates. A
fully-costed design and implementation plans for a full prototype
telescope will be produced.