The Pyxis Interferometer (II): Control System, Telescope and Mechanical Design

The Pyxis interferometer is a ground-based pathfinder for an optical space interferometer being built at Mt Stromlo Observatory. In this second paper, we discuss the system breakdown of the interferometer and its mechanical design. We outline the interferometer's three robotic platforms, with two telescopic collectors and one central beam combiner. Each collector utilises a full aluminium, diamond-turned telescope, designed to remove thermal distortions for future space applications. We also explain the chosen control system for the interferometer and how it will be used to ensure the linear and angular control requirements, including sub-milli-radian angular control of each robot.