Rare High-reflectivity Protected Gold-Coated IR Mirror ~800 nm to 20 µm Witness Sample.
Barr performed the actual thin-film deposition (protected gold + dielectric overcoat) —optimized for NIR to MIR applications. Excellent for IR lasers, thermal imaging, or space optics experiments.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer/Coater: Barr Associates, Inc.
- Description: Protected gold-coated mirror witness sample for M2 (secondary mirror) in telescope/optical system
- Excellent durability and environmental resistance (space-qualified level).
- Substrate: Likely fused silica or low-expansion glass for thermal stability in space/defense applications.
- Coating: High value Protected gold (gold metallic layer + thin dielectric overcoat) with gold-coated handling tabs/flaps – high reflectivity >96–98% from ~800 nm (NIR) to 20 µm (mid/far-IR)
- Size: ~38 mm total diameter, ~32 mm mirrored area, ~10 mm thick
- Part Number: 800531-WS (“WS” = Witness Sample)
his small, high-quality mirror is far more than a collectible – it’s ready for practical use:
- IR Laser Alignment & Experiments – Ideal beam steering mirror for CO2 (10.6 µm), Nd:YAG (1.064 µm), or diode lasers in the NIR. High reflectivity and durability make it great for lab setups.
- Thermal Imaging / IR Optics Projects – Use in DIY FLIR cameras, blackbody calibration, or heat-seeking prototypes – reflects thermal radiation efficiently.
- Astronomy & Space Optics Demos – Simulate secondary mirrors in telescope builds or educational models of space surveillance systems (ties to Lincoln Lab’s real work).
- Spectroscopy & Scientific Instruments – High-IR mirror for FTIR, Raman, or custom spectrometers
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Artistic or Decorative Light Installations – The golden tabs and iridescent coating create beautiful reflections under different lights.



