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MORFEO

Multi-conjugate Adaptive Optics Relay For ELT Observations

2028

Project specifications

Main Scope

Two Deformable Mirrors for ELT Adaptive Optics Relay

Developed by

AdOptica (Microgate + ADS International)

First light

2028


Primary Mirror diameter

39 m

Deformable mirrors

0.88 - 1.22 m

Number of actuators

928 - 1225

Structure size

final installation at Cerro Armazones, Chile

Istituto Nazionale di AstroFisica – Osservatorio Astronomico di Bologna (INAF – OAB)

MORFEO

Multi-conjugate Adaptive Optics Relay For ELT Observations

Status:

Procurement, manufacturing and modular testing

Procurement, manufacturing and modular testing

Description

MORFEO is the multi-conjugate adaptive optics system developed for the ESO Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). Designed to support first-light instrument MICADO and future instrument HARMONY, the system compensates for atmospheric turbulence using advanced deformable mirrors and six laser guide stars.

By delivering sharp and stable near-infrared imaging across a wide field of view, MORFEO enables high-precision astronomical observations and represents a key component in the next generation of ground-based astronomy.

The large optical bench comprehends two Deformable Mirrors, DM1 and DM2, aimed to correct the light aberration induced by the turbulence in the high-altitude atmospheric layers, at 6.5 km and 12.5 km respectively. Such correction, in combination with the Adaptive M4 XXXMetterei un link interno quiXXX that corrects the lover players of the atmosphere, will enable optimal image correction over a large field of view.

microgate responsibilities

The design, construction and testing of both MORFEO DM1 and DM2 has been to Microgate as representative of the AdOptica consortium between Microgate and ADS international. Microgate is specifically responsible for the design of the local and global control system, design and production of the dedicated embedded control electronics, firmware and software development, electronics manufacturing and subsystem testing, final electro-mechanical integration, electromechanical validation, optical testing, and commissioning at customer premises in Bologna.