1.5m aluminization plant calibration for 1m Carl Zeiss telescope mirror realuminization

Abstract

The calibration of the 60-inch aluminization chamber is a critical prerequisite for the successful re-aluminization of the 1-meter Carl Zeiss reflector telescope mirror. This process ensures the deposition of a uniform and precisely controlled aluminum coating, which is essential for optimal optical performance. Calibration involves several key steps, including thorough cleaning and inspection of the chamber, accurate placement and testing of filaments, and the verification of coating thickness and reflectivity uniformity across the chamber. A series of test runs culminating in mirror coupons is carried out to confirm these parameters before proceeding with the final aluminization of the 1-m Carl Zeiss telescope primary mirror at Vainu Bappu Observatory in India. The entire process is designed to meet the stringent optical standards required for high-precision astronomical observations.