One of the key mechanisms of the Mid-infrared ELT Imager and Spectrograph (METIS) is its cryogenic K-shaped derotator, designed to maintain accurate sky and pupil alignment on the detector during observations. Operating at 67 K within a tightly constrained envelope, it must deliver slow, precise rotation while meeting stringent lateral stability and optical performance requirements for bundle diameters up to 140 mm. Over the past few years, NOVA has developed and tested this mechanism, addressing challenges in thermal stability, mirrors manufacturing, assembly, and alignment. This talk presents key design solutions and results from the cryogenic test campaign.

Spreker: Daan Zaalberg (Mechanical Engineer) & Mirka Maresca (FEM Specialist)

Company: Astron

Date: March 2 2026

Time: 12:02pm

Location: Teams

Please send an email to info@dspe.nl if you are interested in following this lecture.