Abstract: The embodiments of the disclosed controlled flexible membrane reflector show a system wherein the optical surface of a reflector is electrostatically controlled. By controlling the electric field acting on selected portions of the flexible membrane which bears the optical surface, the shape of the optical surface can by dynamically controlled. A figure sensor or image quality detector detects deviations of the reflecting surface of the membrane from the desired figure and a feedback control system adjusts selected portions of the electric field to return the reflective surface to its proper figure. The differential control of the electric field is accomplished by segmenting a back electrode and controlling the voltage on each segment individually. The control voltage varies around a nominal value applied to all segments which is required to deflect the surface into its desired shape.