High precision electroformed nickel panel technology for sub-millimeter radio telescope antennas

Media-Lurio has accumulated an extensive know-how during the XMM project in the electroforming of highly accurate nickel reflectors, in precision measurement technology and the related quality aspects as demanded by space applications. We present results of investigations of panels suitable for ground station antennas and of investigations of panels for the ALMA (Atacama large millimetre array) radio telescope. Some of the results are shown. Several tests on a prototype panel have been carried out and obviously interesting results have been obtained. This all indicates a promising prospect.