Meticulous care -- under a rigidly controlled process -- was taken during the creation of the primary mirror, as any contaminants on the mirror's surface could prove disastrous to astronomical observation.

As such, maintaining the mirror in perfect condition would appear to be a demanding task. However, all conceivable aspects, including post-installation maintenance, were taken into consideration during the design phase.

A thin coating of protective film prevents any accumulation on the aluminum surface. However, if a fine layer of grit or dust adheres to the mirror, it can be easily removed through the spraying of carbon dioxide snow. In the event of persistent debris, the mirror can be detached and washed with distilled water. Fastidious care of the primary mirror is essential for maintaining high performance.