AG Optical Systems - Technology

AG Optical Systems (AGO) specializes in the design, development, and production of high-resolution imaging systems.  The technology behind our products is based upon modern design, test, and production technologies.

Design

AG Optical Systems uses Solidworks 3D CAD software to virtually design each optical system. The use of advanced CAD software allows AGO to explore mechanical design options and thoroughly investigate the mechanical characteristics of telescope designs before any carbon fiber fabric is cut or metal machined. This approach helps AG Optical Systems reduce design complexity when appropriate and design systems that can be repeatedly manufactured and assembled to high levels of precision and tolerance.

AG Optical Systems uses ATMOS and Zemax software to design our optical systems. 

Prototype Development/Manufacturing

Optics

At the heart of each AG Optical telescope are precision manufactured and carefully tested optics crafted by experienced opticians. Rigorous testing and quality control processes ensure that AGO optical systems offer excellent optical performance that will satisfy the most discriminating user.

Testing Methodology

Each optic that goes into an AGO telescope is rigorously tested using a variety of established test methodologies. This approach and commitment to quality ensures the each AGO telescope provides high contrast, razor sharp performance. Each and every iDK optical set is null tested as a system in autocollimation against a certified reference flat. This unforgiving test ensure that the performance of iDK astrographs will be consistently outstanding and meet the potential of the excellent optical design.

After final figuring is complete, each optic is coated with an enhanced aluminum coating and readied for assembly.

iDK corrector elements are made in the USA by an established optics manufacturer with vast experience making optics for commerical and defense industries. Each corrector element is thoroughly tested before being coated with a multilayer broadband antireflection coating that reduces light reflection to less than 0.5%.

Machining and Fabrication

AG Optical System owns a 3200 ft² facility which houses CNC and manual maching equipment to include a vertical machining center, lathe, manual milling maching, and computer controled curing oven.  Our optical systems are tested using a large, highly precise collimating telescope to ensure that they perform to a very high standard.