Introducing the Latest in Thermal Imaging: The LightIR 16-180mm MWIR f/3.6 Lens

MKS Instruments, Inc. has unveiled a groundbreaking continuous zoom lens, enhancing the LightIR series of lightweight, long-range, motorized zoom lenses crafted by the Ophir Optics Group.

Compact Design Meets High Performance

The LightIR 16-180mm MWIR f/3.6 lens is engineered for optimal performance wiht smaller 10μm pitch VGA Focal Plane Array (FPA) detectors. Its innovative folded optics design significantly minimizes the lens’s length, resulting in a compact and lightweight optical system that is 65% smaller than traditional Medium Wave Infrared (MWIR) 10μm VGA lenses.

Ideal for Diverse Applications

Weighing in at just 460 grams, this lens is perfectly suited for applications that demand reduced Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP), making it an excellent choice for small gimbal thermal imaging systems, including drones and tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Its versatility extends to commercial, homeland security, and defense sectors, where micro- and mini-tactical payloads are increasingly utilized.

Advanced Optical Capabilities

The folded optics architecture allows for extended optical lengths,which enhances tolerance sensitivity in compact setups that utilize fewer optical components. this design not only ensures near diffraction-limit performance in challenging environments but also effectively addresses issues like Line-of-Sight (LOS) stabilization and athermalization. Additionally, the lens features a mechanical and electrical interface that facilitates seamless integration into various camera systems.

Market Insights and Collaborations

“The LightIR 16-180mm f/3.6 folded zoom lens is a response to the industry’s shift towards smaller detectors,” stated Kobi Lasri,General Manager of Ophir Optics Group. “Its unique combination of SWaP advantages,detection capabilities exceeding 13 kilometers,and competitive pricing make it a game-changer for advanced drone,UAV,and small gimbal thermal imaging applications.”

Chris Johnson, President of Sierra-Olympic, added, “Recognizing the market’s trend towards low-SWaP MWIR 10μm pitch VGA FPA optical systems, we partnered with Ophir’s R&D and Engineering teams to create an innovative and cost-effective zoom lens. Their low-SWaP 10μm pitch VGA zoom lens has positioned us as the first to market with our latest optical systems.”

“Our long-standing partnership with Ophir has solidified our confidence in their advanced optomechanical design and manufacturing capabilities. This collaboration has enabled Sierra-Olympic to maintain its leadership in the market while meeting the demand for low-SWaP optical systems for long-range observation, opening up significant integration opportunities in both military and commercial sectors.”

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