LaCroix Precision Optics Blog

An aspherical lens is any lens that has an optical surface that is not spherical and may include cylindrical, toroidal, and general freeform surfaces. 

Optics are applied in many diverse fields of use every day all over the planet and even in space. The fundamental purpose of optics is to control light in a manner to make it useful. Optical coatings modify the reflectance, transmittance, and absorptive properties of optics substrates to increase the efficiency and functionality of an optic.

In order to turn your optical design from concept to the finished lens, it is crucial to understand what items need to be provided when submitting a request for quote (RFQ). 

 Goal: To provide a basic understanding of optical metrology and the Fizeau interferometer. Fizeau interferometry is performed in manufacturing millions of optical components each year.

Goal: To provide an introductory overview of each topic we will be addressing in this blog series.  As a result, we will be able to dive deeper into each item to better understand aspheres and how they are manufactured.

Goal: To provide the fundamental concepts of laser damage in optical coatings.

The Basics of Making Optics

Goal: Give an introduction into how optics are manufactured starting with a design, then conceptualizing how the lens will be made, designing a blank, forming the blank into the finished part, coating, inspection, and finally packaging and shipping.