How to Manage Wavefront Error Budgets in Space Telescopes
Meeting strict wavefront error (WFE) budgets is essential in the design and manufacturing of space telescope optics. These performance thresholds determine how clearly and accurately a telescope can capture images of distant celestial objects or monitor Earth from orbit. For optical manufacturers, maintaining ultra-low surface figure and irregularity isn’t just about precision—it’s about mission-critical reliability in the extreme conditions of space.