OPG has found the Point Source Microscope (PSM) to be an invaluable tool in the alignment of optical systems and tests. First, we must define alignment. To us it means making sure the centers of curvature of all components lie precisely where the design specifies and that all on-axis beams focus in the locations specified in the design. Defined this way, alignment is a strictly deterministic process that can be accomplished rapidly and accurately with the aid of suitable tooling and the PSM to transfer mechanical to optical datums.

The tooling is a fixture or a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) to mechanically locate centers of curvature and foci of on-axis beams. The PSM is used to transfer the mechanical location to the center of curvature optical surface in question. Many examples of how this is done are illustrated in the papers about the use of the PSM. Please Register on the Home page to view these papers.

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The PSM is also invaluable for aligning aspheric optics, including off-axis aspheres. Because the PSM not only locates point images but shows the image shape, it is used to aid in holding the image in the correct translational location while the asphere is adjusted to reduce the alignment aberrations to zero.

Because the PSM is sensitive to image shape it can be used for the inspection of optics and the measurment of the radius of curvature of surfaces. While the PSM is not as sensitive as an interferometer it can see wavefront errors of a quarter wave or less. For shops without access to an interferometer this can be useful if the quality of an optic is questionable, or there is a concern that mounting has distorted the optic.

For a brochure on the PSM click here.

For a spec sheet on the PSM click here.

A price list for the PSM and accessories can be viewed here.

For further information on the PSM, please contact OPG. (click here)