4 ms·
The segments themselves are 100% modular and you could tile an US state with them. The main problem is engineering: the whole thing needs to behave like a singl
by alfiopuglisi 3y ago
The segments themselves are 100% modular and you could tile an US state with them. The main problem is engineering: the whole thing needs to behave like a single object, turning 360 degrees and moving between horizon and zenith (horizontal and vertical), with a minimum of mechanical flexure. And also resisting wind load. In essence, it's a lightweight building that has to move freely, and this one won't get bigger.
- zzbn00 3y agoThey are modular but not very interchangable (there are 133 different designs of the segments in the primary mirror). Making a much larger mirror would also face another obstacle: the focal length is designed to be practical for a ~40m mirror.