Advanced Optical Systems for Space

Shanghai Optics has established itself as a frontrunner in the field of high-precision opto-mechanical design and assembly, becoming a trusted collaborator in global space programs. Our innovative space optics solutions are meticulously crafted to support a wide array of applications, including satellite-mounted optical cameras and remote sensing payloads. With a strong commitment to quality and precision, we ensure that our products meet the demanding requirements of space science and Earth Observation (EO) missions.

Optical Components for Micro-Satellites

Shanghai Optics specializes in designing and manufacturing a diverse range of optical components for micro-satellites. Our offerings are essential for various sectors, including scientific research, defense operations, and remote sensing applications.

Key Optical Products

1.Silicon Carbide Mirrors

• • Materials: Crafted from Silicon Carbide (SiC)
  • Surface Options: Flat, spherical, and aspheric shapes
  • Performance: Exceptional surface flatness of up to λ/100 RMS, delivering lightweight and thermally stable designs.

Silicon Carbide Mirrors

2.Off-Axis Parabolic Mirrors

• • Materials: High-quality aluminum
  • Accuracy: Surfaces are maintained at 1/10 λ RMS
  • Customization: Available with a variety of coatings including aluminum, silver, and gold to suit specific mission needs.

Off-Axis Parabolic Mirrors

3.Optical Domes

• • Material Choices: Fused silica, sapphire, germanium, zinc selenide, and MgF2 ceramic
  • Specifications: Surface accuracy ranges from 1/10 to 1 λ, with options for anti-reflection coatings for various spectral ranges.

We also offer custom specifications and coatings upon request, catering to unique project requirements.

Ritchey Chrétien Telescope (RC Telescope)

Diverse Applications in Space Exploration

Shanghai Optics’ optical systems are critical for various applications in space exploration:

• Optical Navigation: Satellites utilize advanced star trackers, which function as high-precision cameras to pinpoint and follow specific stars, ensuring accurate orientation and navigation adjustments.
• Optical Communication Systems: Our free-space laser communication technology enables high-bandwidth data transmission between spacecraft and Earth or among satellites, providing superior performance compared to conventional radio waves.
• Scientific Observation Tools: A wide range of optical components are integrated into spacecraft instruments, such as spectrometers that analyze emitted light to determine the composition of celestial bodies. Notably, recent lunar missions have utilized lasers for ice detection in shadowed regions.
• Power Generation with Photovoltaic Devices: Solar cells play an indispensable role in space missions by converting sunlight into electricity to power spacecraft systems and recharge batteries.

Advanced Manufacturing Techniques

At Shanghai Optics, we utilize cutting-edge technologies to ensure the highest standards in optical manufacturing:

• Precision Integration: Our meticulous alignment and integration processes guarantee that all components are precisely configured and tested rigorously for space qualifications.
• Optical Polishing: We offer high-precision polishing of various refractive optical materials and mirror substrates, including options up to 4 meters. Our state-of-the-art techniques include computer-controlled polishing and ion-beam figuring.
• Coating Technologies: We employ advanced coating methods such as Ion-Assisted Deposition (IAD), Electron Beam (E-Beam), and Ion Beam Sputtering (IBS) to produce highly effective coatings for filters and beam splitters, critical for a wide range of applications.

With our high-performance optical systems, Shanghai Optics is committed to supporting a variety of missions, from Earth Science to space-based communication and innovative technologies in satellite applications.

Contact Shanghai Optics today! We’d be more than happy to discuss your projects and how to best bring them to fruition.