Importance

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Abstract

An optical assembly is part of an optical system such as a laser communication system on a moveable platform that operates in a range of temperature extremes. The optical assembly has a mount with a plurality of supports that couple an optical mirror to a frame or chassis of the optical system. The supports may be selectively heated or cooled in accordance with their respective coefficients of thermal expansion to reduce, minimize, or eliminate angular drift of the mounted optic or mount. The supports expand or contract to correct for misalignments of the beam reflection angle to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the optical system without significantly increasing size, weight, and power of the optical system.

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First Claim