Adjustable clips for grazing-incidence collectors

A method of aligning and securing a grazing incidence collector (GIC) shell having an outer surface and an edge to a spider having spokes each with an upper edge, comprising:

• arranging the GIC shell on the spider, with the edge resting on portions of the upper edges of the spokes;
• securing a base portion of an adjustable clip to the upper edge of the spokes;
• securing a fork member to the base portion so that the fork member can rotate relative thereto, the fork member having end pads that rest against the outer GIC shell;
• optically aligning the GIC shell relative to the spider while the fork member self-adjusts by rotating relative to the base portion;
• and
• securing the end pads to the outer surface of the GIC shell to form a rigid support between the GIC shell and the spider.

A GIC mirror, comprising:

• a) one or more GIC shells each having an outer surface;
• b) a spider having spokes that support the one or more GIC shells;
• c) for each GIC shell, at least one adjustable clip secured to the spokes and to the outer surface of the GIC shell, the at least one adjustable clip having:
• i) a base portion having an upper surface;
• and
• ii) a fork member having prongs with end pads, the fork member being secured to the base portion at a hinge that allows the fork member to rotate relative to the base portion prior to securing the end pads to the outer surface of the GIC shell, and wherein the end pads are secured to the outer surface of the GIC shell.