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Far ultraviolet mirrors for aurora imaging: design and fabrication
Applied Optics
|May 3, 2023
Summary
We developed novel non-periodic multilayer mirrors using LaF3/MgF2 for imaging auroral bands (140-180 nm). These mirrors provide high reflectance and excellent out-of-band suppression, crucial for space-based optical systems.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Space Science and Astronomy
- Materials Science
Background:
- Auroral emissions, specifically N2 Lyman-Birge-Hopfield bands (140-180 nm), are key targets for satellite imaging.
- High-quality imaging requires reflective optics with high reflectance and effective out-of-band reflection suppression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and fabricate non-periodic multilayer mirrors for specific far-ultraviolet (FUV) wavelength bands (140-160 nm and 160-180 nm).
- To achieve excellent out-of-band reflection suppression for improved imaging quality in space payloads.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a match design method and a deep search algorithm for multilayer mirror design.
- Fabricated non-periodic multilayer mirrors composed of LaF3/MgF2 materials.
Main Results:
- Developed mirrors with high reflectance in the 140-180 nm working bands.
- Achieved excellent out-of-band reflection suppression, reducing the need for transmissive filters.
Conclusions:
- The designed LaF3/MgF2 notch mirrors are successfully integrated into China's wide-field auroral imager.
- This work offers new design strategies for far-ultraviolet reflective optics in space applications.
