What are the challenges associated with increasing the diameter of optics like aspheric lenses?

The computer numerically controlled (CNC) polishing equipment used to fabricate the optics must have a large enough range of motion to properly polish the full asphere, and the weight of the lens may also become an issue when increasing its size. Large aspheres can also be more difficult to measure, especially if the saggital height is large enough that it prevents the stylus of a tactile profilometer from tracing the surface. Using a larger stylus to get around this issue may reduce measurement accuracy. Learn more about these considerations and the other steps Edmund Optics takes to ensure the accuracy of large diameter aspheres like the TECHSPEC^® 200mm Diameter Precision Aspheric Lenses in our Large Aspheres: Enabling High-Power Optical Systems application note.