Sectored optical space telescope mirror having a latch for fixing the petals

摘要

A petal deployment latch assembly (300) for securing a petal (20a-20f) of a sectored mirror (12) of an optical space telescope (10) to the central hub (18) of the sectored mirror (12) comprises:
a) a clevis (50) secured to a root (30) of the petal and defining a reception aperture, and
b) a pair of laterally opposed latches (302a, 302b) operatively associated with the central hub (18) for engaging the reception aperture of the clevis (50) upon movement of the petal (20a-20f) from the slowed position to a deployed position. Each latch includes a latch shaft, a cylindrical bearing cage surrounding the latch shaft and a hub mound to be secured to the central hub (18). The hub mount houses the bearing case such that the petal associated with the latch assembly is afforded freedom to expand and contract thermally.