New paradigms for producing high-performing meter class ground-based telescopes

Design-to-cost exercises and innovative design have resulted in remarkably high performing half-meter class wide field astronomical telescopes. This approach is being extended to meter+ class telescopes with further innovation on mounts and optics. Custom motors, drives and bearings have been developed to keep performance up and cost down. We will also report on a concurrent engineering campaign with Brashear Optics to ensure optical performance while maintaining the highest value for primary mirrors in our line of meter (and larger) class astronomical telescopes.