Deformable Mirrors

AOA Xinetics has preserved and improved critical deformable mirror technology over the past ten years. The lead magnesium niobate (PMN) electroceramic actuators used in the mirrors have characteristics ideal for adaptive optics applications. The commercial deformable mirror product has not only helped astronomers see the very beginnings of time, but has also helped ophthalmologists see the very beginnings of eye disease. Our PMN actuated deformable mirror product operates routinely in high-speed adaptive optics systems to 1x1011 cycles without failure. The critical element in making highly reliable deformable mirrors is the availability of precision actuators. By using the cofiring process, an actuator stack has very nearly the same modulus as the bulk ceramic material. This means that these high stiffness actuators greatly simplify the assembly, testing and polishing process, producing a high-quality optical device. In the past ten years, AOA Xinetics has built and delivered over 100 mirrors totaling over 12,000 actuators.

For additional information about Photonics Module products contact
Terry Bruno
Business Area Manager – Intelligent Optics
AOA Xinetics
Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems
115 Jackson Road
Devens, MA 01432
Phone: 978-757-9483
E-mail: Terry.Bruno@ngc.com