Electroforming of large mirrors

Thin metal mirrors are prime candidates for space applications, because of their high thermal conductivity, low weight, and ability to withstand vibration during launch. Of all the fabrication processes, at the present state of the art, electroforming appears the most suitable for producing accurate, thin, metal mirrors with satisfactory mechanical and physical properties. Great strides were made over the past two years in precision electroforming. These are described along with General Electric's spincasting process for the fabrication of masters.