Right Angle Mirror
Right Angle Mirrors
A right angle mirror is an optical mirror designed to deflect a light beam by 90 degrees through total internal reflection or reflective coating on a precision optical substrate. By folding the optical path, right angle mirrors allow compact system layouts while maintaining beam alignment and image orientation.
Right angle mirrors are commonly used in imaging systems, optical instruments, laser assemblies, and inspection equipment where space constraints or mechanical layout require controlled beam redirection. At Star-optics, we manufacture custom right angle mirrors tailored to specific wavelength ranges, angles of incidence, and mechanical requirements.
Optical Function and Design Options
Right angle mirrors are available in several configurations depending on application needs:
Total Internal Reflection (TIR) right angle mirrors, which rely on internal reflection at the glass–air interface and require no reflective coating within the designed wavelength range.
Coated right angle mirrors, where a reflective coating is applied to the hypotenuse surface to ensure high reflectance at wavelengths or angles where TIR is not achievable.
Coated designs allow right angle mirrors to operate across a broader spectral range, including ultraviolet, visible, and infrared regions, and at angles outside the TIR condition.
Applications
Right angle mirrors provide a simple and reliable method for redirecting light while preserving beam quality. They are widely used in applications where optical path folding or beam steering is required, including:
Machine vision and imaging systems
Optical inspection and metrology equipment
Laser beam delivery and alignment systems
Projection and display optics
Scientific and industrial optical assemblies
In many systems, right angle mirrors are used to reduce overall instrument size or to accommodate mechanical constraints without introducing complex optical elements.
Typical Manufacturing Parameters
Right angle mirrors are fabricated from optical glass or fused silica substrates with controlled geometry and surface quality. Typical specifications may include:
Substrate material: optical glass or Fused quartz
Angle accuracy: 90° ± a defined tolerance
Surface flatness: λ/4
Surface quality: 40/20
Clear aperture: ≥90%
Coating: optional,
Exact tolerances and materials are determined by system requirements.
Custom Right Angle Mirrors at Star-optics
Our engineering team works closely with customers to determine whether a TIR or coated design is most suitable for the application, and to ensure the final component integrates seamlessly into the optical system.
If you require right angle mirrors for imaging systems, laser optics, or custom optical assemblies, please contact us to discuss your specifications or arrange an initial consultation.
