Wavefront accuracy of mechanically assembled all-cordierite reflective optical system for cryogenic applications
Abstract
Although a reflective optical system can theoretically realize ideal optical designs, it is not always the optimal choice compared with a refractive one because of the difficulty in achieving high wavefront accuracy. A promising solution is to build reflective optical systems by mechanically assembling all the optical and structural components made of cordierite, which is a ceramic with a very low thermal expansion coefficient. Interferometric evaluations of an experimental product demonstrated that diffraction-limited performance in the visible wavelength was achieved and maintained even after cooling to 80 K. This new technique may be the most cost-effective method for utilizing reflective optical systems, especially for cryogenic applications.
- Publication:
-
Applied Optics
- Pub Date:
- April 2023
- DOI:
- 10.1364/AO.486773
- Bibcode:
- 2023ApOpt..62.2827S