Optoelectronics

Proprietary technique produces ultra smooth laser mirrors

27th September 2024
Sarah Kavanagh
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Optical Surfaces Ltd. has developed an advanced pitch-polishing technique that consistently produces ultra-smooth off-axis parabolic (OAP) mirrors, a crucial element for high-power laser experiments. This proprietary method achieves surface microroughness of less than 1nm RMS, significantly improving focusing performance by reducing the scattering effects that can arise from surface texture irregularities.

Surface microroughness refers to small deviations from the average line profile of a mirror's surface. Plasma physics research groups have noted that increased microroughness leads to scattering, limiting the effectiveness of OAP mirrors in focusing laser beams. Optical Surfaces’ innovative polishing technique directly addresses this issue by controlling microroughness during manufacturing, enabling the production of a new generation of mirrors that push the boundaries of high-power laser physics.

Off-axis parabolic mirrors offer several advantages in imaging systems, including their ability to focus collimated light without introducing spherical aberration. They combine the precision of parabolic mirrors with the flexibility of an off-axis design, allowing for a clear, undisturbed space around the focal point. These mirrors are especially useful for broadband and multi-wavelength high-power laser applications.

Thanks to their stable manufacturing environment and experienced engineering team, Optical Surfaces Ltd. is renowned for producing fast-focusing OAP mirrors with exceptional surface accuracy, low microroughness, and minimal slope errors. Leading laser research institutions, including AWE, ELI, LULI, and CLF Rutherford, along with a growing number of academic centers, have selected Optical Surfaces for their critical optical components in demanding high-power laser applications.

For more details on ultra-smooth OAP mirrors for high-power laser experiments, contact Optical Surfaces Ltd. at +44-208-668-6126 or sales@optisurf.com. You can also download the study “How Microroughness Impacts Optical Performance” at http://www.optisurf.com/index.php/news/technical-tips/.

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