Rubin M1M3 Dynamic performance : stability and actuation during operations
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is preparing to commence the Legacy Survey of Space and Time with the fully integrated Simonyi Survey Telescope. To verify that the primary/tertiary (M1M3) mirror system is ready to meet the demanding survey requirements, dynamic tests of the 8.4 m, 53 ton M1M3 system were conducted to assess safety, stability, and image quality under realistic operating conditions. The M1M3 is supported by 156 pneumatic force actuators and positioned, relative to its mirror cell, by six hardpoint actuators that together must counteract gravitational and inertial loads during rapid telescope motion. The Rubin Observatory telescope mount is capable of moving at a rate that meets its nominal motion requirements, and can approach it maximum allowable values that are 50 percent higher. Even at just 20 % of its operational speed, it is an exceptionally fast motion for such a large structure. After slewing, the system must stabilize and dampen vibrations within 5 seconds to ensure image quality during observations. Achieving this rapid settling requires precise control of 156 force actuators, which must adjust dynamically with changes in telescope elevation to compensate for gravity effects. We present results for M1M3 from a comprehensive series of TMA dynamical tests spanning the operational envelope of slew velocities and accelerations. The analysis evaluates elevation axis balancing and lookup table updating as we install the M1M3 mirror; slew-and-settle behavior, force response and stability of the pneumatic actuator system across telescope attitudes including responses to the earthquake. The results demonstrate the readiness of the M1M3 subsystem for routine survey operations and provide validation data for ongoing performance modeling.