Structure of the Keck Telescope — An overview

The structure of the Keck Telescope is briefly described. The design required an innovative approach made necessary by the revolutionary nature of the segmented primary mirror, by the very stringent weight and cost limitations, and by observational and operational needs. Analysis of a progressively more detailed computer model predicts that all design objectives will be met, as shown in a summary of performance characteristics. The paper is illustrated with a number of drawings.Paper presented at the Symposium on the JNLT and Related Engineering Developments, Tokyo, November 29–December 2 1988.