Product Specifications

Optics for Space

AOS delivers high-performance optical systems—from precision components to fully integrated space cameras—tailored to our customers’ mission needs. We manufacture system-level cameras and optical components to customer designs, or provide end-to-end in-house design and development for customers seeking a turnkey solution.

Our capabilities span small- to large-format aspheric optics and flat scanning mirrors, produced using advanced, production-proven manufacturing technologies. These include ultrasonic aspheric machining, precision pitch polishing, and robotic computer-controlled polishing. Through a trusted network of strategic partners, we also provide state-of-the-art optical finishing and thin-film coatings. Our technology roadmap continues to expand, with Ion Beam Figuring planned for 2026 to further enhance surface accuracy and performance.

Ground Support Equipment

AOS Reference Optics are designed for use in ambient laboratory or TVAC environments. Products include large aperture Collimators, reference mirrors and kits to convert horizontal metrology systems for upward or downward vertical testing. We understand the critical importance of precision and reliability when testing payloads in upward or downward orientations. Our GSE Metrology Optics, available in sizes up to 18 to 30 inches, are expertly designed to enable vertical test conversion of collimators and interferometers. These mirrors are not only adaptable for various applications, including ambient laboratory and Thermal Vacuum Chamber (TVAC) environments, but they also exemplify our commitment to innovative solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients.

Optics for Fusion Energy

Making optics with high laser damage threshold requires a comprehensive approach to process design and control. We invest in both R&D and special equipment to provide our customers with state-of-the-art products. AOS partners with Okamoto Optics of Yokohama Japan and Plymouth Grating Laboratory of Carver Massachusetts to provide comprehensive optics solutions from transport mirrors, windows, gain media, pulse compression gratings, deformable mirrors, and focusing optics to laboratories and commercial fusion energy companies worldwide.

Freeform Optics

AOS produces freeform optics using robotics and advanced metrology. Freeforms may be made up to 800-mm in diameter.

Fast Steering Mirrors

Fast steering mirrors (FSM) are essential components required in high value military hardware and industrial instrumentation applications. AOS SiC fast steering mirrors are currently used for tracking, scanning, pointing, line of sight stabilization, and alignment purposes. This product brochure explains the full range of our fast steering mirror capabilities.

Off-Axis Parabolic Mirrors

Off-Axis Parabolic (OAP) Mirrors are used throughout sophisticated reflective optical systems today. Our customers use OAP’s in beam expanders, collimators, airborne imaging systems, telescopes, and as focusing elements for high-energy lasers. OAPs offer the advantages of compact geometry, simplification in optical design over refractive optics, and very high accuracy imaging over a broad spectral range.

Freeform Optics

Our customers use aspheres in beam expanders, collimators, airborne imaging systems, telescopes, and as focusing elements for high-energy lasers. Aspheric systems offer the advantages of compact geometry and enhanced performance. We design and manufacture parabolas, hyperboloids, ellipsoids, cylinders, and freeforms. We work in all glass types and specialize in optics made from Silicon Carbide for space and aerospace applications. Our applications engineers work with you to define specifications matching your product performance demands and can plan options for prototyping through production.

Silicon Carbide Optics

Silicon Carbide (SiC) is an advanced composite ceramic material developed for applications in Aerospace, Semiconductor Lithography, and Astronomy. This unique material has the highest combination of thermal and mechanical stability of any material which can be optically polished making it perfect for high performance lightweight mirrors mounted on aircraft and spacecraft for imaging, laser targeting and communications applications. Silicon carbide is also used in commercial applications such as lightweight scan mirrors, semiconductor wafer handling, and reflective imaging systems. AOS has pioneered an industry-leading process for manufacturing SiC optics for industry, defense, and research applications. We produce more SiC optics than anyone else in North America.

AOS Modular Laser Mirror Mounts

AOS' innovative modular mirror mounts enable low stress, kinematic mounting of large optics.