Abstract: A method is disclosed for the strain-free mounting of a component, such as a mirror, in a manner that allows differential thermal expansion or contraction to take place without distortion of the component. The mounting method makes use of a linear bearing that is rigid in all directions except one. Such a linear bearing is used at two or more points of support on the circumference of a mounting circle or circles. Relative motion in the linear bearings occurs along a line which is an extension of a radius of the mounting circle. The linear bearings each contain two sets of opposed rolamite mechanisms moving in parallel directions in the perpendicular arms of a "Y"-shaped frame.