This Spotlight gives a general overview of the durability of optical coatings and various durability tests referring to available civilian and military standards and specifications. It will allow a quick detection of the coating testing durability requirements and test conditions in MIL-Specs and other standards or specifications according to requirements defined in the relevant drawings or coating specifications. Intended for optical designers, this Spotlight is also useful for optical coating inspectors.

Good optical design is not in itself adequate for optimum performance of optical systems. The mechanical design of the optics and associated support structures is every bit as important as the optics themselves. Optomechanical engineering plays an increasingly important role in the success of new laser systems, space telescopes and instruments, biomedical and optical communication equipment, imaging entertainment systems, and more. This is the first handbook on the subject of optomechanical engineering, a subject that has become very important in the area of optics during the last decade. Covering all major aspects of optomechanical engineering - from conceptual design to fabrication and integration of complex optical systems - this handbook is comprehensive. The practical information within is ideal for optical and optomechanical engineers and scientists involved in the design, development and integration of modern optical systems for commercial, space, and military applications. Charts, tables, figures, and photos augment this already impressive handbook. The text consists of ten chapters, each authored by a world-renowned expert. This unique collaboration makes the Handbook a comprehensive source of cutting edge information and research in the important field of optomechanical engineering. Some of the current research trends that are covered include:

"This book instructs inspectors and designers of optical elements and assemblies with the primary means of inspection and testing, as well as the relevant tools and instruments"--

Practical, user-oriented reference for engineers who must incorporate and specify coatings for filters, antiglare effects, polarization, or other purposes in optical or electro-optical systems design. It focuses on preparation techniques and characteristics of commercially available products and provides information needed to determine what type of filter is needed to solve a particular problem, what its limitations are, and how to care for it.