Siberian scientists have developed a new generation of laser generator capable of producing diffractive optical elements for the spacecraft.
The device operates as follows: a beam of ultraviolet laser is focused in the thickness of the photosensitive film by photochemical reactions in the treated surface is obtained nanorelief, the parameters of which can be kept to within a few nanometers. So you can get templates for optical components or finished optics.
To obtain a high-quality image of the surface of the Earth by satellite, used heavy lenses, including elements weighing hundreds of kilograms. Delivery of equipment into orbit costs about 10 thousand dollars per kilogram. With the invented technology can produce diffractive optical elements - thin plates that replace heavy objects with multiple lenses, which will reduce the costs of transportation to the orbit dozens of times.
Previous versions of these devices are already working in production in Russia and abroad. In particular, at the Ural Optical and Mechanical Plant such installation ten years ago replaced the work of two plants for the production of optical scales and limbs, while another works on defense enterprise of space instrument.
Two units acquired two German research institute, another - a research center of the Italian car manufacturer Fiat in Turin, where it can help developed lightweight headlamp for a vehicle.
The first such installation was staged in Harbin Institute of Technology, the deal amounted to 450 thousand dollars. The cost of the device ranges from 350 to 450 thousand dollars, depending on configuration.
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Source: sibir.ria.ru
via factroom.ru