About Large Optics

Large optics are specialized optical components—such as lenses, mirrors, or windows—that are significantly larger than standard sizes, often exceeding meters in diameter or length. These components are crucial in applications where large apertures, extended fields of view, or high-resolution imaging over great distances are required.

Market Applications

  1. Astronomy and Space Exploration:
  • Primary mirrors in ground-based telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope and the Very Large Telescope (VLT). These mirrors allow scientists to observe stars, galaxies, and exoplanets with unprecedented detail.
  1. High-Energy Lasers:
  • The National Ignition Facility (NIF) employs large optics to amplify and direct laser beams for nuclear fusion research.
  1. Earth Observation and Remote Sensing:
  • Satellite imaging systems like those used by NASA or commercial Earth observation companies.
  1. Defense and Surveillance:
  • Optical systems in satellites, airborne reconnaissance systems, and missile defense.
  1. Cinema and Entertainment:
  • Projection lenses for immersive and large-scale visual displays.
  1. Scientific Research:
  • Large interferometers like LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory), which use large mirrors to detect gravitational waves.

Technical Specifications

Large Optics Manufacturing Details

Parameter

Specification

Notes

Material Options

BK7,Fused Silica, Zerodur®, Aluminum, Silicon

Choice of substrate depends on application

Diameter Range

300 mm to 700 mm

Custom sizes available upon request

Surface Quality

20-10 Scratch/Dig

High precision for minimal scattering

Focal Length

10 mm to 1,500 mm

Wide range to suit diverse setups, depending on OD

Surface Accuracy

λ/10 @ 632.8 nm

Ensures superior optical performance

Coating Options

Protected Gold, Enhanced Silver, Dielectrics

Optimized for wavelength-specific reflectivity

Reflectivity

>98% (customizable)

Depends on the coating type

Wavelength Range

200 nm – 20 µm

UV to IR applications supported

Temperature Resistance

-50°C to +300°C

Stable performance under extreme conditions

Customization

Shape, size, coating, and mounting

Tailored to specific industry needs