Space Observation Optics Cover From IR To X-Ray Wavelengths

Optical Surfaces Ltd is a leading designer and supplier of high precision, ground telescope and satellite-based space observation optics operating over the entire spectral range from infrared to x-ray wavelengths.

Operating in a unique production environment, free from vibration and temperature variation, Optical Surfaces Ltd is able to regularly produce large, high precision aspheric optics; ultra smooth mirrors, high performance prisms, Schmidt camera and Laser launch telescope optics which stretch the limits of conventional optical fabrication techniques.

Investment in large aperture Zygo GPI, Twyman Green, Scatterplate, Fizeau and Laser Unequal Path (LUPI) interferometers allows one-to-one testing of even the largest diameter space observation optics.  Topographic and fringe analysis provides precise testing of surface roughness and confirms the wavefront of various surface forms. A rolling program for calibration of test optics where possible to national standards and production approval to ISO 9001-2000 ensures that the quality of space observation optics from Optical Surfaces Ltd. is second to none.

Notable projects assisted by Optical Surfaces’ high precision optics include the UV Optical Telescope on the NASA Swift Explorer mission; the XMM Optical Monitor telescope for the European Space Agency (ESA); a Cassegrain camera for the NigeriaSat-2 satellite and the HROS Spectrograph for the 8m Gemini telescope (Chile). For more information, visit www.optisurf.com/index.php/news/application-stories/.