Abstract: A system for providing shape determination of a planar or quasi-planar surface is disclosed. The system includes a number of targets located on the surface and one or more sensor devices. The sensor devices are configured to monitor the targets and obtain information relating to deflections normal to the plane of the surface. The sensor devices are mounted close to each other and the line-of-sight of each sensor device is at a shallow angle to the plane of the surface. The system further includes processing logic configured to execute a shape reconstruction algorithm based on the information to determine the shape of the surface.

Abstract: The system of the present invention is a spacecraft architecture for precision motion control of a payload while isolating disturbances and vibrations to the payload. The motion of the payload module is controlled by reacting on the support module using non-contact actuators disposed between the two modules. The motion of the support module is controlled to follow the payload module using external actuators that react against the surroundings. This system achieves vibration isolation down to zero frequency and is not limited by sensor characteristics.

Abstract: The system of the present invention is a spacecraft architecture for precision motion control of a payload while isolating disturbances and vibrations to the payload. The motion of the payload module is controlled by reacting on the support module using non-contact actuators disposed between the two modules. The motion of the support module is controlled to follow the payload module using external actuators that react against the surroundings. This system achieves vibration isolation down to zero frequency and is not limited by sensor characteristics.