SOAR Telescope seismic performance II: seismic mitigation

We describe design modifications to the SOAR telescope intended to reduce the impact of future major earthquakes, based on the facility’s experience during recent events, most notably the September 2015 Illapel earthquake. Specific modifications include a redesign of the encoder systems for both azimuth and elevation, seismic trigger for the emergency stop system, and additional protections for the telescope secondary mirror system. The secondary mirror protection may combine measures to reduce amplification of seismic vibration and “fail-safe” components within the assembly. The status of these upgrades is presented.