High Performance Infrared Zoom Lenses for UAVs and Drones: Low-SWaP, Extended-Range, Ruggedized Lenses

Low SWaP, Continuous Zoom Lens Released for 5μm & 10μm SXGA SWIR Detectors

With a detection range exceeding 26km, MKS Instruments’ new lens has the widest SWIR spectral range in the industry By Caroline Rees / 03 May 2023
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MKS OPHIR_SWIR lens (2)

MKS Instruments, Inc. has released the Ophir SWIR & NIR 25-250mm f/5.5 (NFOV) f/4.0 (WFOV) continuous zoom lens at SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing 2023. 

According to the company, this is the industry’s first compact, rugged, low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) lens for the newly introduced 5μm and 10μm SXGA, as well as the 15μm VGA SWIR detectors. 

An innovative opto-mechanical design delivers a lens that is approximately 60% lighter than similar SWIR lenses – with a weight of only 860g and length of 224mm – while enabling a high-quality image with a detection range exceeding 26km. In addition, the lens features a unique coating that is able to withstand harsh environments. 

MKS Instruments designed the Ophir SWIR & NIR 25-250mm lens to be a disruptive enabler of advanced drones, coastal search and rescue, tactical UAV IR cameras, and micro / mini tactical payloads in the commercial, homeland security, and defense markets. 

“The Ophir SWIR zoom lens redefines the market for industry’s newly introduced small pixel detectors,” said Dr. Kobi Lasri, General Manager, Ophir Optics Group. “With its highly compelling combination of extended wavelength, reduced SWaP, high reliability, and attractive cost, the Ophir SWIR lens enables new applications and major advances in long-range day observation with laser spot detection in poor visibility and harsh environmental conditions.“ 

The Ophir SWIR & NIR 25-250mm lens is chromatically corrected to support a broader shortwave IR range, from 700nm to 1700nm, covering both NIR and SWIR bands, and to operate with minimal distortion, with an optional configuration for a narrow wavelength from 1100nm to 1700 nm. The lens also provides a 10X zoom ratio; a 25-250mm EFL range; an F/5.5 to support both 5μm and 10μm pixel pitch detectors, including SXGA format; a low SWaP athermal design; and high MTF performance over both the zoom range and a wide temperature range. 

To learn more, contact MKS-Ophir: Visit Website Send Message View Supplier Profile
Posted by Caroline Rees Caroline co-founded Unmanned Systems Technology and has been at the forefront of the business ever since. With a Masters Degree in marketing Caroline has her finger on the pulse of all things unmanned and is committed to showcasing the very latest in unmanned technical innovation. Connect & Contact