Telescopes
As the successor to the companies MT Mechatronics and MAN Technologie, the development and installation of large telescopes is one of our core areas of expertise. Our team at the Mainz site has more than 60 years of experience in the realization of demanding projects for astronomical research.
Our first project was the Parkes radio telescope, which was built in Australia between 1959 and 1961. With an antenna diameter of 64 meters, it used to be the largest mobile telescope of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Since then, we have successfully completed numerous other projects and our expertise has continued to grow.
Development and Construction of New Telescopes
We provide astronomical research with the tools for groundbreaking discoveries. As a general contractor understand we understand the unique requirements of everyn project and offer customized solutions that meet the highest standards. We are supported by a global network of suppliers.
Our services include:
- Conducting feasibility and concept studies
- Project management
- System Engineering:
- Mechanical and structural design
- Servo and control systems incl. software development
- Finite element analyses
- Dynamic system simulations
- Optical systems
- HF systems
- Development of prototypes
- Supply Chain Management
- Construction site supervision
- System tests and commissioning
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Maintenance, upgrades and modernization of existing telescopes
In addition to the development and construction of new telescopes, we offer extensive services in the areas of maintenance, upgrades and modernization for existing systems made by all manufacturers. We advise our customers worldwide and find sustainable and cost-efficient solutions for projects of any size and complexity.
Our services include:
- System analyses: performance and thermal analyses, FE calculations, dynamic simulation
- Feasibility studies to increase performance
- Integration of sensors
- Optimization of energy management
- RAMS analyses
- Replacement of optical components: reflectors, mirrors
- Development and integration of corrective measures (wobbler/chopper, hexapod, active/adaptive surfaces)
- Replacement and upgrading of mechanics, gearboxes, bearings, etc.
- Replacement and upgrading of structural components (trusses, connecting elements)
- Measurement and calibration
- Material analysis and advice
- Replacement and upgrading of power, drive and control cabinets
- Replacement and upgrading of drive systems
- Rewiring
- Integration of new subsystems (e.g. de-icing, encoder systems, cooling systems)
- Upgrade antenna control hardware and software incl. new functions
- Integration into the observatory control system
- Implementation of remote control
- Concept development
- Implementation
- Maintenance and repair
- Damage analysis
For technical services of all kinds in Chile we are supported by our subsidiary OHB Chile.
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