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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
Key Takeaways Space-based telescopes are evolving rapidly, with growing demand for compact, high-performance optical systems. Freeform optics enable miniaturized designs, while SiC mirrors offer stability and low mass for harsh space environments. Lightweight structures are essential for both CubeSat payloads in LEO and large observatories in deep space. Across mission sizes, the trend is clear: […]
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 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: 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 […]
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 […]
