Avantier Inc.
Key Takeaway When measured Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) differs from optical design predictions, the difference does not necessarily indicate a problem with the lens. Conjugate conditions, entrance pupil alignment, focus position, and measurement geometry can all influence the result, particularly toward the edge of the image field. For optical engineers, the challenge is not simply […]
Design Considerations for Germanium Optics in LWIR Systems Germanium remains a common material choice for LWIR optical systems, particularly where high refractive index, transmission in the thermal infrared, and established precision-fabrication processes are required. For an experienced optical engineer, however, the relevant question is rarely whether germanium transmits in the LWIR. The more useful questions […]
Intro Summary Choosing between an aspheric and a freeform surface in a space optical system is not simply a question of optical performance. The decision affects the complete optomechanical architecture, including mass, package volume, substrate selection, manufacturability, metrology, alignment, thermal stability, and qualification risk. Aspheres remain the more efficient choice when rotational symmetry can be […]
Surface Figure Control for High-Performance Aspheric Mirrors in Space Optics High-performance aspheric mirrors used in space optical systems require more than a low final RMS value. Surface figure, roughness, subsurface condition, edge behaviour, spatial-frequency error, and metrology uncertainty must all be controlled within the same manufacturing strategy. This application note examines a representative space mirror […]
Design Trade-offs in Compact Multispectral Reflective Imaging Systems Advanced imaging systems for aerospace and environmental remote sensing are increasingly expected to combine multiple spectral bands, compact packaging, high image quality, and stable operation in demanding environments. For systems spanning visible, near-infrared, and thermal infrared wavelengths, the challenge is not simply achieving good optical performance in […]
Engineering Criteria for Selecting Infrared Lenses Infrared lens selection should not begin with focal length, F-number, or price. For experienced engineers, the more useful question is: Which optical characteristics are actually critical to system performance under the intended operating conditions? A lens that performs well at room temperature may fail across a wide thermal range. […]
Key Takeaways Reverse engineering an optical system is not simply a matter of copying measured geometry. A physical sample reflects manufacturing tolerances, assembly errors, wear, and aging—not only original design intent. Reliable reconstruction requires correlating component measurements with system-level optical performance. Modern materials, coatings, and mechanical architectures can improve manufacturability and performance without unnecessarily changing […]
Zinc Sulfide Infrared Windows for Space Systems Infrared windows used in space systems must do more than transmit light. They may also need to withstand thermal cycling, vibration, pressure changes, particle impact, radiation, contamination, rain, sand, or repeated cleaning. At the same time, they must preserve the signal quality required by the detector behind them. […]
Key Takeaways Large-aperture transmissive optics require system-level control of wavefront error across design, fabrication, alignment, and qualification. Broadband performance from 400 to 1000 nm depends on material selection, melt data, thermal behavior, and tolerance allocation. For 300–340 mm elements, gravity, fixture loading, mounting stress, and metrology conditions must be treated as optical error sources. Final […]
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