Abstract

The science of astronomy has long depended upon the talents and abilities of the optical profession. Astronomers would soon be out of business without lenses, mirrors, filters, special coatings, polarizers, optical fibers, diffraction gratings, and numerous other things provided in the past by the optical industry for astronomical needs. The present discussion is about yet another astronomical need and how its eventual fulfillment may depend upon even further advances in the art of optical fabrication.

© 1980 Optical Society of America