Space orbit is a subject new to most professionals in astronomy, optics, radio, and other sciences. The orbits definition and the orbit environmental conditions, including upper atmosphere, heat sources, heat transfer, plasma, charged particles, torque produced by gravitational field, and torque produced by the aerodynamic drag, are introduced in this chapter. The altitude sensors and actuators for space telescope position control are also discussed. In the space telescope project part, two important space telescopes, the Hubble Space Telescope and James Webb Space Telescope, are discussed in depth. Emphasis is placed on their mirror design and the mirror material selection. The Space Interferometer Mission and other space projects are also introduced.
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Cheng, J. (2009). Space Telescope Projects and their Development. In: The Principles of Astronomical Telescope Design. Astrophysics and Space Science Library, vol 360. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/b105475_5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/b105475_5
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