Abstract
This paper presents the optical system design process for an image furnace for use in the First Material Processing Test (FMPT) which will be conducted using the Space Shuttle in 1987. A multi-ellipsoid system was investigated by the theoretical process to determine the best number of ellipsoidal mirrors required. A formula was induced for the attainable system temperature. It was assumed, for easy induction, that spherical light source were being prepared on the first foci for the ellipsoidal mirrors. A spherical black body was being prepared on the common second foci asa heated sample. The relationship between attainable temperature and the conditions inherent in the system was investigated by numerical calculation of the formula. The investigation revealed that two ellipsoid categories with a O. 92 ratio, between major axis length and minor axis length, is most suitable for the FMPT, from the view points of attainable temperature and the dimension of the mirrors. The investigation also clarified that the image furnace with the above mentioned conditions gives a temperature higher than 2000°C with a lesser than 1 kW input power.
