Abstract: We report on the results of computationally designing and optimizing
multilayer mirrors for broadband reflectivity in a region spanning from
the vacuum ultraviolet to the infrared. Such a mirror would open up
new possibilities for future space observatories. Because of the
immense number of possible layer combinations and thicknesses for a
multilayer mirror, we automated the mirror selection process with a
genetic algorithm. Starting with a random object population within the
simulation, a genetic algorithm iteratively selects and mutates the best
portion of a population of objects that fit given design criteria to create
a new population; this can be repeated as many times as desired. Our
genetic algorithm yielded a high broadband reflectance mirror, which
was then optimized via gradient search within the program. We found
that placing a few layers under an aluminum coating can significantly
increase extreme ultraviolet reflectivity, which would give access to
important spectral lines such as that of the dominant He-II transition.