Blog

2016 APOMA Technical Workshop Recap

Posted by Ron Schulmerich on

Esco Optics just returned from the 2016 APOMA Technical Workshop hosted by John Grievencamp at the University of Arizona in Tucson on November 10th and 11th. Here's a brief recap.

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New Product Release - First Surface Mirrors

Posted by Bill Hill on

Esco Optics announces the addition of precision quality, first surface mirrors to its online catalog of stock optics. Manufactured from fused silica, these substrates benefit from the material’s low coefficient of thermal expansion, providing a stable, 0.10 wave surface figure and 40-20 scratch/dig over an 85% clear aperture.

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Optical Properties - Refractive Index & Dispersion

Posted by Bill Hill on

Optical Properties - Refractive Index & Dispersion

Refractive index (n) is one of the principle defining characteristics of an optical material.  In simplified terms, the refractive index defines to what degree light is bent or “refracted” when crossing the boundary between two mediums.

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Application & Environmental Considerations for Optical System Design

Posted by Bill Hill on

In our previous article, we discussed how light is defined by opticians in terms of its wavelength and that their understanding of its propagation as a wave allows them to manipulate its behavior using optics.  We’ll now move on and begin to cover the many considerations when designing an optical system. The first and most obvious consideration in optical design is defining the intended application.  Perhaps the system will be used to image the sun in ultraviolet light; perhaps it is for biomedical imaging of human tissue or maybe it’s a simple viewport that is subject to extremely high pressure...

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The Benefits of Fused Silica & Quartz

Posted by Bill Hill on

Attached to the tool belt of every optical designer is a staggering variety of materials from which to choose.  However, from high and low index optical glasses, absorptive filters, various crystals, composites and plastics, very few can boast the wide ranging appeal of fused silica.  In terms of application, this high purity, non-crystalline material is often the go-to substrate of choice, and for good reason.  If you’re in the market for an all-purpose, high performing lens, window, mirror substrate or even a simple, stable tool, then consider the following: Range of Transmission:  Through various manufacturing processes, producers of fused silica...

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Quality Optics from a Trusted Supplier

American Owned & Operated

Esco Optics is a leading manufacturer of custom and catalog optics, precision optical components, and ITAR optics in the United States.

Military & Defense Supplier

As the leader for military and defense optics in the United States, Esco Optics adheres to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

ITAR Registered & Compliant

ITAR registered and compliant, Esco manufactures ITAR optics for all of its customers with the strictest confidentiality.