TRW directed energy lab mirror

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