Astronomy, the study of the stars and planets, is fueled almost entirely by our ability to see deep into space. Powerful microscopes that utilize highly reflective mirrors increase our ability to see farther into the reaches of space. This technology is a long way from the kind first utilized by Gallileo Galilei to observe the phases of Venus. Today’s technology is able to observe galaxies and other astronomical phenomena.
Such high powered mirrors would be in extremely short supply if not for advances in manufacturing that allowed for reduced material usage.
PVD Thermal Evaporation
Glass is fragile under extreme temperatures. If glass were placed in a super-heated chamber it would crack or shatter easily. As a result, precise controls are used to lower the temperatures from within the chamber. Metals are first heated until they take a gaseous form, then they are left in the cooling chamber where they settle across the surface of the glass. Silver or titanium metals are commonly used, and both have extremely high burning points.
Ion Beams
Ion beam sputter deposition systems accomplish a similar goal, but are used when precision is necessary. Normal sputter deposition coats a surface entirely. Using ion beams, the surface receives a coating applied to a specific area. This improves the density of the coating, and reduces the absorption of light. It also helps reduce any imperfections to the substrate caused by heating. If the substrate is damaged, even in a subtle way, it can reduce the overall quality of the mirror and ruin the astronomer’s perception.
Bio: Denton Vacuum, LLC manufactures devices used in ion beam etching for telescopic mirrors and a host of other applications.
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