A unique laser recording system is being developed in Novosibirsk, which will be used to create ultra-light optical elements for space technology.
The work is being carried out by order of a Chinese scientific institute specializing in space optics. The project is being implemented by the Design and Technology Institute of Scientific Instrument Engineering SB RAS (CTI SB RAS) in collaboration with the Institute of Automation and Electrometry. The start is scheduled for 2026, and the completion is in 2027.
We are talking about a high-tech photo plotter — equipment that uses a laser to create microstructures on optical surfaces. Such structures give lenses and other elements special properties. The main advantage is a significant reduction in the weight of optical components. This is especially important for spacecraft, where every gram matters. Such elements are used, in particular, in holograms and diffraction systems.
Novosibirsk equipment is already being used in Chinese space projects — previously, CTI created equipment for missions to search for potentially habitable planets. The current project will be the first experience of cooperation specifically with this institute in China. A visit by the Russian delegation to China is scheduled for the summer: there, scientists will present their developments, and the Chinese side will outline the technical requirements.
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