How to Manage Wavefront Error Budgets in Space Telescopes

How to Manage Wavefront Error Budgets in Space Telescopes Meeting strict wavefront error (WFE) budgets is essential in the design and manufacturing of space telescope optics. These performance thresholds determine how clearly and accurately a telescope can capture images of distant celestial objects or monitor Earth from orbit. For optical manufacturers, maintaining ultra-low surface figure […]

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High-NA Long Working Distance Objective for Ion Trapping
High-na objective lens ion trap experiments

Key Takeaways In ion trapping experiments, precision optics are critical for delivering UV laser excitation and collecting ion fluorescence efficiently. This application note details the design, manufacturing process, and practical performance of a custom microscope objective for ion trapping with a long working distance (≥52 mm) and large numerical aperture (NA ≥ 0.48). The system […]

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Space-Qualified Optical Sensors for ADCS in Small Satellites

Key Takeaways Optical systems are vital to ADCS performance in small satellites, enabling precise attitude determination with star trackers, sun sensors, and Earth horizon sensors.  Avantier supports SWaP-constrained missions with compact, radiation-hardened optics, precision assembly, and mission-specific designs. Avantier’s miniaturized, thermally stable components enhance pointing accuracy and environmental resilience.  From beam steering to photon torquers, […]

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Understanding Laser-Induced Damage Threshold (LIDT)

Key Takeaways: Laser-Induced Damage Threshold (LIDT) defines the laser energy or power at which materials sustain permanent damage.  It varies with laser type—pulsed or continuous—and is influenced by factors like pulse duration, wavelength, material defects, and thermal properties.  Pulsed lasers often cause non-thermal damage via ionization, while CW lasers primarily induce thermal effects. Testing methods […]

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Case Study: Wide Field Space Imaging with Off-Axis Freeform Optical Design

Wide Field Space Imaging Project Overview Meeting the growing demand for large-area Earth observation requires optical systems that combine wide field of view, high optical performance, and compact design. One such solution is a space camera optical system based on an off-axis four-mirror freeform design, achieving a 70° ultra-wide field of view from a 640 […]

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Selecting the Right Coatings for Space

Key Takeaways Satellite telescope coatings must support wide spectral ranges (UV to LWIR) while enduring radiation, AO exposure, and thermal cycles. AR coatings for lenses and windows require high transmittance, environmental resistance, and minimal outgassing. Gold and silver reflective coatings are essential for high-efficiency IR mirrors in thermal imaging telescopes. AO-resistant layers like ALD-deposited Al₂O₃ […]

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High-NA, Vacuum-Compatible Objective Lenses for Quantum Computing

Objective Lenses for Quantum Computing Systems Objective lenses play a critical role in modern quantum computing platforms, enabling precise light delivery, efficient single-photon detection, and high-resolution imaging. Whether in neutral atom arrays, ion traps, or photonic qubit systems, these lenses are essential for system fidelity and scalability. Why Objective Lenses Are Critical in Quantum Computing […]

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Case Study: Telescope Design Optimization for Performance and Manufacturability

Key Takeaways Design optimizations enhanced telescope manufacturability and performance.  Replacing the optical tube with carbon fiber reduced weight and improved thermal stability.  A redesigned secondary mirror mount with locating pins and adhesive injection holes ensured precise, long-term alignment.  Adding shims and positioning pins between the primary mirror and tube enabled fine-tuned alignment and post-assembly stability.  […]

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Precision Transmittance Testing for High-Performance Lenses
Precision Transmittance Testing for High-Performance Lenses

Key Takeaways: We offer precision lens transmittance testing using light intensity ratio and integrating sphere methods.  These techniques ensure high optical performance, verifying brightness, color accuracy, and system efficiency across application-specific wavelengths.  Our lab-built setups deliver reliable results for coated, curved, or multi-element lenses.  While we don’t use high-speed laser transmittance meters, our capabilities meet […]

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Advanced Microscope Objectives for Gene Sequencing, Biomedicine, and Semiconductor Inspection

Key Takeaways At Avantier, innovation in optical design continues to unlock new frontiers in imaging performance. Recent developments in high-throughput and large field-of-view microscope objectives demonstrate how precision optics are accelerating breakthroughs in gene sequencing, biomedical diagnostics, and semiconductor inspection. Here’s a look at four cutting-edge microscope objectives developed to meet the demanding needs of […]

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