A kinematic optical mounting assembly secures an optical element to a base. A
plurality
of first bracket assemblies and second bracket assemblies are secured to the base
and engage the optical element. Each first bracket assembly constrains the optical
element from movement relative to the base in a direction substantially parallel
to an axis of the base. Each second bracket assembly constrains the optical element
from movement relative to the base in a direction substantially perpendicular to
the axis of the base and substantially tangential to a periphery of the base. Six
independent bracket assemblies constrain the optical element in six degrees of
freedom to provide kinematic constraint without bending moments.
