Case Study: Athermalization Design Using Chalcogenide Glass in LWIR Infrared Lenses Overview As the demand for infrared imaging grows across defense, industrial, and smart applications, the challenge of maintaining stable imaging performance across temperature ranges becomes more critical. This case study by Avantier showcases how chalcogenide glass, a promising infrared optical material, was used to […]
Key Takeaways Advanced wavefront sensors play a critical role in high-precision optical metrology across industries like ophthalmology, astronomy, and semiconductor inspection. These systems rely on sophisticated optical design for wavefront sensor configurations, particularly through the use of custom optics such as microlens arrays, coatings, and detectors. In this article, we explore how custom optics in […]
Key Takeaways Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) relies fundamentally on High-Precision Optics for its unparalleled imaging capabilities. Key OCT System Optical Components, like OCT Scan Lenses, OCT Beam Splitters, and OCT Collimators, must meet strict tolerances for wavefront quality and dispersion. Achieving superior image contrast and resolution hinges on minimizing aberrations. Manufacturing these components presents challenges […]
Key Takeaways: Surface roughness, surface texture, surface finish, surface roughness measurement, profilometer, Ra value, Rq roughness, and high-precision optics are essential for controlling optical performance. Nanometer-scale roughness causes light scattering, distortion, and lowers laser damage thresholds. Surface roughness results from manufacturing methods, material structure, and environmental effects. Tools like profilometers and AFM provide accurate surface […]
Key Takeaways: Durable optical materials are crucial for reliable performance in extreme environments, enabling next-gen optical systems to withstand radiation and thermal stress. Innovative radiation hardened coatings and thermally stable substrates like Zerodur and Silicon Carbide maintain optical integrity in harsh conditions. Meta-optics and nanophotonic structures offer compact and robust alternatives for advanced optical functionalities […]
Key Takeaways This article details optical system design for wide spectrum star trackers, vital for spacecraft attitude determination. It covers reflective, catadioptric, and transmissive types, highlighting their benefits for space applications. A compact, athermalized f/2.8 star tracker lens design example for 450-1000nm is presented, optimized for 2048×2048 sensors, ensuring stable, high-performance star identification across extreme […]
Key Takeaways Custom microlens array design enables tailored optical solutions for diverse applications like imaging and photonics. Precision engineering, material selection, and overcoming fabrication challenges are crucial for meeting specific performance requirements, as highlighted in our case studies. Microlens arrays are composed of multiple lens cells arranged on a glass, polymer, or metal substrate in […]
Key Takeaways Diffuse Optical Tomography (DOT) is a non-invasive imaging technique using near-infrared light to visualize optical properties of soft tissue, such as brain or breast tissue. By analyzing light absorption and scattering due to chromophores like hemoglobin, DOT enables real-time imaging of tissue oxygenation and composition. Techniques include time, frequency, and steady-state domain systems. […]
Key Takeaways: Miniaturized optics are revolutionizing CubeSats by enabling high-resolution imaging, agile beam steering, and real-time spectral analysis in compact form factors. Innovations like folded telescopes, MEMS mirrors, and compact spectrometers allow advanced performance in tight 1U–6U payloads. Optical engineers overcome challenges—vibration, thermal shifts, and radiation—using techniques like additive manufacturing, athermal designs, and hermetic sealing. […]
Key Takeaways Deep space optical communication (DSOC) uses laser-based systems for high-bandwidth, interplanetary data transfer. NASA’s DSOC project achieved a 266 Mbps downlink from 19 million miles using photon-efficient modulation and precision optics. The system includes a dual-wavelength flight transceiver, ground-based multi-laser uplink, and photon-counting receiver at Palomar Observatory. Key challenges include beam stability, extreme […]
