Athermal Optical Systems
What are Athermal Optical Systems?
Athermal optical systems are a cornerstone of modern optics, designed to ensure consistent optical performance across varying temperatures. These systems are indispensable in environments where precision and reliability are non-negotiable.
Principles of Athermalization
Athermalization involves a combination of optical, mechanical, and material strategies to counteract the effects of temperature changes on optical systems. The key principles include:
Material Selection
Choosing the right materials is fundamental to passive athermalization.
- Optical Materials: Glasses with low thermal expansion and complementary dn/dT values help counteract temperature effects.
- Housing Materials: Innovative materials like ALLVAR Alloy 30, with a negative CTE, expand design possibilities.