Product Description
TRW Directed Energy Lab – SDI-Era Concave Spherical Mirror (Fused Silica)
This is a genuine artifact from TRW’s Directed Energy Laboratory, developed for 1980s–1990s high-energy laser research under the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI/”Star Wars”) program. Featuring a military-grade fused silica substrate and high-reflectivity dielectric coating, it was engineered to withstand extreme beam fluences and thermal loads.
Key Specifications:
-
Diameter: 100 mm (≈4 inches)
-
Focal Length: 1 m (1000 mm)
-
f/#: f/10 (slow, low-aberration profile)
-
Radius of Curvature: ≈209 cm
-
Thickness: 20 mm (high rigidity, thermal mass)
-
Substrate: Fused Silica – near-zero thermal expansion, ultra-high laser damage threshold
-
Coating: Dielectric multilayer – optimized for high reflectivity across visible to IR
-
Heritage: TRW Directed Energy Lab – used in SDI, Airborne Laser (ABL), and MIRACL programs
Why This Mirror Is Exceptional:
-
Historical Significance: Originates from a pivotal Cold War defense program; a tangible piece of aerospace/optics history.
-
Unmatched Durability: Fused silica substrate ensures stability under high thermal and radiative stress—far surpassing commercial optics.
-
Proven Performance: Designed for use in systems like the Mid-Infrared Advanced Chemical Laser (MIRACL).
Applications:
-
High-Power Laser Systems: Beam control for CO₂, Nd:YAG, or diode lasers in research or industrial cutting/engraving setups
-
Astronomy: Primary or secondary mirror in custom Newtonian/Cassegrain telescopes (f/10 ideal for planetary detail)
-
Optical Research: Interferometry, spectroscopy, or advanced lab demonstrations requiring low-scatter, high-stability optics
-
Collecting & Display: A rare piece of SDI-era technology for historians, veterans, and aerospace memorabilia collectors



