Realization and validation of a breadboard able to simulate the LISA constellation acquisition from the optical point of view

The thesis topic is part of a research program whose main goal is the development of a modular system integrated approach to design Pointing & Tracking systems, capable to satisfy the strict pointing and stability requirements of the new generation of space optical payloads. The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission, with specific application to the issue of constellation acquisition, is the best present paradigm of this evolution of optical pointing. Thus, the main objective of the activity was the realization and validation of a breadboard able to simulate the LISA constellation acquisition from the optical point of view.