Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM) have become key components in diverse applications such as industrial instrumentation, astronomy, laser communications, imaging systems, experimental optical bench setups, and independent research and development (IR&D) projects.

An FSM can be used to perform a variety of functions including tracking, scanning, pointing, beam stabilization, line of sight stabilization, and alignment.

FSMs are used in precision-pointing systems to move a light beam quickly, point it toward a specific target, and stabilize it. FSMs rapidly correct for environmental disturbances such as aircraft turbulence or spacecraft structure vibrations.

Ball Aerospace has successfully refined its FSM technology over the past 25 years. This has resulted in advances in the mirror, the motors that move it, the feedback sensors that determine mirror position, and the control system that ties it all together.

Ball Aerospace’s design features a unique flexure suspension that avoids transferring the forces of dissimilar metal expansion to the mirror surface figure. A non-contacting sensor system measures mirror angular displacement providing a highly linear relationship between the geometrical displacement and sensor signal.

Our standard product design is based on a robust combination of five components: mirror, suspension, actuators, sensors, and control electronics. The electronics are designed to allow for economical packaging requirements. Custom coatings for the mirror are available and include gold, silver, and dielectrics.

Ball Aerospace FSM standard product designs consist of the following models:

• Tactical Fast-Steering Mirrors (TFSM)
• BSM45
• Wide Angle Steering Mirrors (WASM)

Custom mirrors requirements and specifications are welcome, and will be quoted individually.