Welcome to the Center for Applied Optics
The Center for Applied Optics (CAO) has extensive expertise and capabilities in optical and optomechanical design and analysis, optical fabrication, optical metrology, and testing and prototyping of state-of-the-art optical components and systems. Center researchers are exploring unique applications of optics for numerous space, military and industrial uses. Experienced research personnel and advanced laboratory resources make the CAO uniquely qualified to perform world-class optics research, prototyping and production support.
The CAO is housed in the 1st and 4th floors of the Optics building on UAH Campus. The Optics Building was carefully designed and built specifically for Optics research. A building within a building, the central core of laboratories is vibration isolated from the external office and student space. CAO labs and facilities comprise labs dedicated to:
Optical Fabrication: This includes Diamond turning [Nanotech 250UPL (3-axis) and Nanotech FG650 (6-axis)], free form polishing [Zeeko IRP600X], standard polishing [OptiPro Glassmaster 52], Curve generator [Strasbaugh 7M (24鈥�)], several standard single spindle polishers and nickel and gold electroplating.
Optical Surface Metrology: This includes form interferometry [4D Technologies Accufiz (633nm, 4鈥� and 12鈥� beams, 2m Radius Slide) and PhaseCam(1064nm), Zygo Verifire (633nm, 4鈥� and 12鈥� beams, 2m Radius Slide), and roughness [Nanocam Sq (10X and 50X objectives)].
Optical Coating Metrology: This includes measurements of high reflectivity [Ultrafast Innovations Cavity Ring-Down Loss Meter], absorption [Stanford Photo-Thermal Common-Path Interferometer] scattering [The Scatter Works CASI Scatterometer] and spectrophotometry [Agilent Cary 7000]
Additional labs in the CAO, performing collaborative research with SMDC, are exploring spatial pixel calibration, fiber lasers, ultrashort pulse lasers, laser/ material interaction, and beam control/ wavefront sensing.
About the CAO - PDF Presentation
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Thin Disk Laser Lab
We're proud to offer student participation in advanced laser design using the thin disk laser student lab. Studies in this lab support students in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.
Contact Us
Center for Applied Optics
Optics Building OPB400
301 Sparkman Drive
Huntsville, AL 35899 (map)
256.824.2528
256.824.6618 (Fax)
optics@uah.edu
