Abstract: A novel mirror structure and actuator for precision control of the contour of a mirrored surface is described which comprises a movable control member for contacting the mirror faceplate, and a position controller, which may be in the form of an electrically controlled magnet and coil assembly, operatively interconnecting the control member and a rigid support for the mirror structure; a position sensor operatively interconnects the control member and the mirror support to sense the position of the control member and to provide a corresponding output signal; programmable information processing electronics, responsive to the output signal of the position sensor, provides an input signal to the position controller to move the control member against the faceplate whereby the shape of the faceplate may be controlled according to a preprogrammed scheme applied to the electronics.