Q: What is deep space laser communication? A: Deep space laser communication is a technology that uses laser beams to transmit data over vast interplanetary distances, offering higher data rates than traditional radio frequency systems. Q: How did Andover Corporation’s filters contribute to NASA’s DSOC experiment? A: Andover’s short wave pass filters enabled precise wavelength selection, reducing background noise and enhancing the sensitivity of the photon detectors used in the DSOC experiment.

Optical Filters Archives

Andover Filters Power NASA’s Deep Space Laser Communication

By Rick Shagoury | February 21, 2025 |

In December 2023, NASA’s Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) experiment, led by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California, achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully transmitting an ultra-high-definition video via laser from nearly 19 million miles away—a distance equivalent to over 80 times the gap between Earth and the Moon. This technology demonstration marks…

Optical Filters for Wildfire Management

By Holly Peterson | January 16, 2025 |

A drone equipped with an advanced optical sensor hovers over a wildfire as a person monitors infrared imagery on a tablet. The display shows heat signatures, highlighting the role of optical technology in wildfire prevention and detection. Remote sensing optics, including thermal imaging and infrared sensors, are crucial for early fire detection, situational awareness, and risk mitigation in wildfire-prone areas.

Empowering wildfire management with advanced optical filters for early detection, monitoring, and response to protect communities and our planet. Learn how technology aids in wildfire prevention.

How Optical Technology Keeps Us Safe in Winter Weather

By Holly Peterson | December 23, 2024

How Optical Technology Keeps Us Safe in Winter Weather How Optical Technology Keeps Us Safe in Winter Weather Winter brings a unique set of challenges, from unpredictable snowstorms to icy road conditions. Advances in optical technology are helping communities navigate these hazards with greater precision and safety. By powering weather-monitoring and safety systems, optical filters…

The Role of Optical Components in Thanksgiving Dinner

By Holly Peterson | November 26, 2024

The Role of Optical Components in Thanksgiving Dinner The Role of Optical Components in Thanksgiving Dinner Published by Andover Corporation on Nov 26, 2024 1:00:00 PM As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it’s a time to reflect on our culinary traditions and the innovations that enrich our food experience. Among the many technologies that play a vital role in…

Enhancing Precision in Defense: Optical Components for Targeting Pods

By Rick Shagoury | September 16, 2024 |

A close-up of a modern targeting pod displayed on a clear stand at an outdoor exhibition. The pod features multiple optical windows, which may utilize chalcogenide glass for enhanced infrared performance. A caution label warns of rotating parts, highlighting the pod’s gimbal stabilization system. Targeting pods like this are essential for military aircraft, providing advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) capabilities for precision targeting and reconnaissance.

Explore Andover Corporation’s expertise in optical components for targeting pods, enhancing precision in defense applications.

Celebrating National Aviation Day

By Rick Shagoury | August 20, 2024 |

A formation of advanced stealth fighter jets flying above the clouds, with the lead aircraft prominently featured in the foreground. The aircraft's sleek design integrates cutting-edge aerospace optics and sensor systems, including electro-optical targeting and infrared detection for enhanced situational awareness and precision targeting. Modern aviation relies on high-performance optical coatings and materials, such as chalcogenide glass, to optimize visibility, targeting accuracy, and operational effectiveness in diverse combat environments.

Celebrate National Aviation Day with Andover Corporation’s decades of optical expertise supporting critical aviation and aerospace innovations.

Celebrating Women in Optics: María Josefa Yzuel

By Rick Shagoury | March 8, 2024 |

$Maria Josefa Yzuel, a distinguished physicist, sits in a laboratory surrounded by optical instruments and precision optics setups. She is known for her contributions to optical physics, particularly in the fields of diffractive optics and polarization. Her work has advanced applications in imaging, optical filtering, and photonics. The background features shelves with scientific books and equipment, reflecting her extensive research and academic contributions to optical sciences.$

Andover Corporation continues its celebration of women pioneers in optics by turning the spotlight on María Josefa Yzuel, a pioneer in optical engineering.

Optics in Forensics: Advancing Criminal Investigations

By Andover Corporation | November 3, 2021 |

New optical technologies in forensics have reached a level of sophistication that can detect even the smallest traces of evidence. Crime will no longer pay