Micromega Dynamics (http://www.ulb.ac.be/scmero/mumega/mumega.htm) is currently developing, under the GSTP II program of ESA, a multi degrees-of-freedom fine precision mechanism based on the magnetic bearing technology. This project is the follow-up of the one degree-of-freedom Optical Delay Line developed at ULB, Active Structure Laboratory (http://www.ulb.ac.be/scmero), of which Micromega Dynamics is a spin-off. The project addresses the improvements identified on the ULB Optical Delay Line:

• Reduced power dissipation for cryogenic operation

Simplified driving and control electronics for space qualification

Increased number of degrees-of-freedom: Piston + Tip-tilt

Better guiding, previously limited by the sensor resolution

In a later phase, the proposed breadboard should be tested in-orbit, in a GAS container of the American Space Shuttle. The principal functional specifications of the mechanism are the following:

• Payload: 1kg dummy mirror

Linear resolution: 1nm_rms over 0.75s

Linear stroke: 5mm

Angular resolution: 10nrad _rms over 0.75s

Angular stroke: 2.5mrad

Maximum power dissipation: 2W

The project was started in July 1999 and should be completed in March 2001.