Avantier Inc.
Key Takeaways: The integrity of any optical system designed for space, defense, or high-energy applications hinges entirely on selecting the right durable optical materials. For engineers in telescope manufacturing and satellite payload design, the challenge is twofold: achieving dimensional stability using thermally stable substrates against extreme thermal cycling, and maintaining clarity via radiation-hardened coatings under […]
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 for small satellites are enabling high-resolution imaging, agile beam steering, and real-time spectral sensing in compact CubeSat optical payloads. Innovations in miniaturized satellite optics—including compact satellite telescopes, MEMS mirrors, and CubeSat spectrometers—deliver advanced performance within strict mass, volume, and power limits. Engineers overcome challenges such as vibration, thermal shifts, and radiation […]
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 […]
Key Takeaways: Eye Lesion Detection Lenses Two main types of medical eye lesion detection lenses exist: long-distance and zero-distance. Long-distance lenses are non-contact and safe. They require cooperation and are good for screening adults/adolescents. Zero distance lenses are designed for direct contact, and provide high resolution for infants/uncooperative patients. They do have the potential for […]
Key Takeaways This Aspherical Lenses Reverse Engineering case study details the reverse engineering of a double aspherical lens used in laser cutting systems. By precisely measuring geometry, modeling surface equations, and analyzing material and coatings, Avantier reduced R&D time by over 60% and cut costs by 50%. Advanced tools like interferometers, profile meters, and Zemax […]
Key Takeaways Avantier has extensive capabilities in manufacturing large optical components, including high-precision parabolic mirrors and durable beam-steering optics with custom coatings. Multiple case studies showcase our expertise in meeting demanding specifications for accuracy, stability, and laser damage thresholds in applications like calibration systems and high-power lasers. Avantier provides tailored solutions for aerospace, metrology, and […]
Optical Communication in Space: From Free-Space Lasers to Deep-Space Data Links Optical communication in space represents a transformative shift from traditional radio frequency (RF) transmission to high-speed, laser-based data exchange. Using light instead of radio waves, these systems can send vast amounts of data across interplanetary distances with unparalleled efficiency. Collectively referred to as Free-Space […]
