ABSTRACT
The mounts considered in this chapter all provide axial support for fixed vertical-axis mirrors. Included are single-and multiple-ring mounts; air bag (bladder) mounts supplying continuous (large area) or independent annular or pie-shaped zone support; multiple-point mounts, Hindle (whiffletree) mechanisms, counterweighted mechanisms, pneumatic or hydraulic supports; and metrology mounts that are used to support a mirror while it is being polished or tested. The latter mounts are used when a gravity-free (space) environment must be simulated in the laboratory. Examples involving 36-and 52-point supports are discussed. Lateral constraints for the vertical axis mirror in its mount are also considered.
