Polaris® XY Optical Translation Mounts


  • SM05- or SM1-Threaded Bore with ±2.0 mm of XY Travel
  • Integrated Locking Mechanisms on Each Axis
  • Heat Treated to Minimize Temperature-Dependent Hysteresis

POLARIS-1XY

SM1-Threaded
XY Translation Mount

Front

Back

The front face features an SM1-threaded bore.

POLARIS-05XY

SM05-Threaded
XY Translation Mount

Front

Back

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Features

  • XY Translator for Ø1/2" or Ø1" Optics with ±2.0 mm Range
  • Integrated Locking Mechanism
  • Matched Actuators and Body Provide Stability and Smooth Adjustment
  • Extensive Testing Guarantees Less than 5 μrad Reflected Beam Shift after Temperature Cycling (See Test Data Tab for Details)
  • Machined from Heat-Treated Stainless Steel with Low Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE)
  • Passivated Stainless Steel Surface Ideal for Vacuum and High-Power Laser Cavity Applications

The Polaris® XY Translation Mount is the ultimate solution for applications requiring stringent long-term alignment stability. The front plate features either an SM05-threaded (0.535"-40) or SM1-threaded (1.035"-40) bore with a stainless steel retaining ring for mounting Ø1/2" or Ø1" lenses or other SM05- or SM1-threaded components. The translation plates are secured using a patent-pending flexure preloading mechanism that is lockable using a setscrew with a ball tip that introduces minimal angular shifts during locking and unlocking. This design provides high holding force and pointing stability while allowing quick and easy installation of the optic. Two mounting positions are possible for right- or left-handed orientations.

Optic Retention
These mounts feature either SM05- or SM1-threaded bores which allow a variety of optical components to be secured. A stainless steel retaining ring is included with each mount; additional retaining rings can also be purchased separately. Polaris optic bores are precision machined to achieve a fit that will provide optimum positional stability over changing environmental conditions such as temperature changes, transportation shock, and vibration. The performance will be diminished if these mounts are used with optics that have an outer diameter tolerance greater than zero or smaller metric optic sizes. To order a mount designed for metric optics, please contact Tech Support.

Design
Machined from heat-treated stainless steel, Polaris mounts utilize precision-matched adjusters with ball contacts and sapphire seats to provide smooth adjustment. As shown on the Test Data tab, these mounts have undergone extensive testing to ensure high-quality performance. The Polaris design addresses all of the common causes of beam misalignment; please refer to the Design Features tab for detailed information.

Post Mounting
These Polaris translation mounts are equipped with #8 (M4) bores for post mounting, as well as Ø2 mm alignment pin holes around the mounting holes, allowing for precision alignments when paired with our posts for Polaris mirror mounts. See the Usage Tips tab for more recommendations about mounting configurations.

Cleanroom and Vacuum Compatibility
The Polaris translation mounts are designed to be compatible with cleanroom and vacuum applications. See the Specs tab and the Design Features tab for details.

Item # POLARIS-05XY POLARIS-1XY
Optic Sizea Ø1/2" Ø1"
Optic Thickness (Max) 0.20" (5.0 mm)
XY Travel Range ±2 mm / ±2 mm
Adjusters 130 TPI Matched Actuator/Body Pairs, 195 µm/rev, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex Drive
Measured Point-to-Point
Mechanical Resolution per Adjuster
5 µm (Typical)
Measured Beam Shift from
Locking Screw (per Axis)b
15 µrad (Typical)
5 µrad (Achievable)
Crosstalk (X/Y) <3.4 µm/rev
Orthogonality (X/Y) 90.0° ± 0.5°
Beam Deviation <5 μradc <5 μradd
Recommended Optic Mounting Torque 5 - 18 oz-in for 5 mm Thick Optics
Maximum SM-Threaded Component
Mounting Torque
15 lb-in for SM05-Threaded Parts 30 lb-in for SM1-Threaded Parts
Maximum Front Plate Payload 0.5 lb-in (0.05 N·m) / 0.5 lb (2.3 N)
Mountinge Two #8 (M4) Pocket Holes at 90°
Alignment Pin Holesf Two at Each Counterbore
Vacuum Compatibilityg 10-9 Torr at 25 °C with Proper Bake Out,
10-5 Torr at 25 °C without Bake Out,
DuPont Krytox® LVP High-Vacuum Grease Vapor Pressure:
10-13 Torr at 20 °C, 10-5 Torr at 200 °C;
DuPont Krytox® XHT-BDX High-Vacuum Grease Vapor Pressure:
10-14 Torr at 20 °C, 10-6 Torr at 200 °C;
EPO-TEK® 353ND Epoxy (353NDPK) Meets
Low Outgassing Standards NASA ASTM E595, Telcordia GR-1221
Cleaningg Passivated per ASTM-967 using Carpenter AAA Method
Operating Temperature Range -30 to 200 °C
  • For best performance, use optics with a diameter tolerance of up to +0/-0.004" (+0/-0.1 mm).
  • Measured change in the alignment of a reflected beam from tightening the integrated locking screw.
  • After a 13.5 °C temperature cycle, a reflected beam returns to within 5 μrad of its original position for a Polaris mounted on a Ø1" post with a 2" beam height. Please see the Test Data tab for more details.
  • After a 10 °C temperature cycle, a reflected beam returns to within 5 μrad of its original position for a Polaris mounted on a Ø1" post with a 2" beam height. Please see the Test Data tab for more details.
  • These mounts can be used with standard 8-32 and M4 socket head cap screws for mounting without obstructing the transmissive beam path.
  • Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended. The recommended tolerance for the location of the mating dowel pin holes and threaded mounting hole is ±0.003".
  • This mount is assembled in a clean environment, chemically cleaned using the Carpenter AAA passivation method to remove sulfur, iron, and contaminants from the surface, and double vacuum bagged. Standard 8-32 and M4 cap screws are not rated for pressures below 10-5 Torr. Prior to placing any components in a sensitive vacuum system, a thorough pre-baking in a bake-out oven should be performed to remove all moisture and surface volatiles. Contact Tech Support for details.

Polaris® XY Translation Mount Test Data

The POLARIS-05XY Ø1/2" Optic and POLARIS-1XY Ø1" Optic Translation Mounts have undergone extensive testing to ensure high-quality performance. For each optic size, the Polaris mounts had mirrors installed and torqued down to 5 lb-in with the included POLARIS-SM05RR or POLARIS-SM1RR retaining ring. The mounts were then installed in a temperature-controlled environment, each on a Ø1" stainless steel post that was secured to a stainless steel optical table. One of each of the POLARIS-05XY and POLARIS-1XY mounts had their translation axes unlocked (top and bottom-left plot) and one additional POLARIS-1XY had both axes locked (bottom-right plot). A beam from an independently temperature-stabilized laser diode was reflected by each mirror onto a position sensing detector.

Positional Repeatability After Thermal Shock

Purpose: This testing was done to determine how reliably the mount returns the optic, without hysteresis, to its initial position. These measurements show that the alignment of the optical system is unaffected by the temperature shock.

Procedure: The temperature of each mount tested was raised to above 34 °C, then the temperature of the mount was returned to the starting temperature. The results of these tests are shown to the right.

Results: As can be seen in the plots to the right, when the Polaris mounts were returned to their initial temperature, the angular position (both pitch and yaw) of each optic returned to within 5 µrad of its initial position. The performance of the mounts was tested further by subjecting them to repeated temperature change cycles. After each cycle, the mirror positions reliably returned to within 5 µrad of their initial positions.

Conclusions: The Polaris translation mounts are high-quality, ultra-stable mounts that will reliably return an optic to its original position after cycling through a temperature change. As a result, these mounts are ideal for use in applications that require long-term alignment stability.


Click to Enlarge

Design Features of Polaris XY Translation Mounts

Several common factors typically lead to beam misalignment in an optical setup. These include temperature-induced hysteresis of the optic's position, crosstalk, drift, and backlash. Polaris optic mounts are designed specifically to minimize these misalignment factors and thus provide extremely stable performance. Hours of extensive research, multiple design efforts using sophisticated design tools such as finite element analysis software, and months of rigorous testing went into choosing the best components to provide an ideal solution for experiments requiring ultra-stable performance from a lens mount.

Thermal Hysteresis
The temperature in most labs is not constant due to factors such as air conditioning, the number of people in the room, and the operating states of equipment. Thus, it is necessary that all mounts used in an alignment-sensitive optical setup be designed to minimize any thermally induced alignment effects. Thermal effects can be minimized by choosing materials with a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), like stainless steel. However, even mounts made from a material with a low CTE do not typically return the optic to its initial position when the initial temperature is restored. All the critical components of the POLARIS-05XY and -1XY mounts are heat treated prior to assembly since this process removes internal stresses that can cause a temperature-dependent hysteresis. As a result, the alignment of the optical system will be restored when the temperature of the mount is returned to the initial temperature.

The method by which the lens is secured in the mount is another important design factor; these Polaris mounts offer excellent performance without the use of adhesives. Instead, each mount has an SM05- or SM1-threaded bore and a stainless steel retaining ring that holds the optic in place. The holding force provided by the stainless steel retaining ring is sufficient to keep the lens locked into place regardless of the ambient temperature. This bore also allows other SM05- or SM1-threaded components to be secured in the mount.

Crosstalk
Crosstalk is minimized by carefully controlling the dimensional tolerances of the plates of the mount so that the X and Y actuators are orthogonal. In addition, sapphire seats are used at both contact points. Standard metal-to-metal actuator contact points will wear down over time. The polished sapphire seats of this Polaris mount, in conjunction with the hardened stainless steel actuator tips, maintain the integrity of the contact surfaces over time.

Drift and Backlash
In order to minimize the positional drift of the lens mount and backlash, it is necessary to limit the amount of play in the adjuster as well as the amount of lubricant used. When an adjustment is made to the actuator, the lubricant will be squeezed out of some spaces and built up in others. This non-equilibrium distribution of lubricant will slowly relax back into an equilibrium state. However, in doing so, this may cause the position of one of the mount's plates to move. The Polaris mounts use adjusters matched to the body that exceed all industry standards so very little adjuster lubricant is needed. These adjusters have a smooth feel that allows the user to make small, repeatable adjustments.

Cleanroom and Vacuum Compatibility
These Polaris mounts are designed to be compatible with cleanroom and vacuum applications. It is chemically cleaned using the Carpenter AAA passivation method to remove sulfur, iron, and contaminants from the surface. After passivation, it is assembled in a clean environment and then double vacuum bagged to eliminate contamination when transported into a cleanroom.

Double Vacuum Bagging for Polaris Mounts
Click to Enlarge

Polaris mounts are shipped inside two vacuum bag layers.

The sapphire contacts are bonded into place using a NASA-approved low outgassing procedure. In addition, DuPont Krytox® LVP High-Vacuum Grease, an ultra-high-vacuum-compatible, low outgassing-PTFE grease, is applied to the adjusters. The grease applied to the dovetail mechanism is DuPont Krytox® XHT-BDX High-Vacuum Grease, which is also an ultra-high-vacuum-compatible, low-outgassing PTFE grease. When operating at pressures below 10-5 Torr, we highly recommend using an appropriate bake out procedure prior to installing the mount in order to minimize contamination caused by outgassing.

Cleanroom-Compatible Packaging
Each vacuum-compatible Polaris mount is packaged within two vacuum bag layers after assembly in a clean environment, as seen in the image to the right. The vacuum-tight fit of the bags stabilizes the mount, limiting translation of the front plate due to shocks during transportation. The tight fit also minimizes rubbing against the bag, preventing the introduction of bag material shavings that would contaminate the clean mount.

In the vacuum-sealing process, moisture-containing air is drawn out of the packaging. This eliminates unwanted reactions on the surface of the mount without the need for desiccant materials. The vacuum bags protect the mount from contamination by air or dust during transport and storage, and the double-vacuum bag configuration allows for a straightforward and effective cleanroom entry procedure. The outer bag can be removed outside of the cleanroom, allowing the contaminant-free inner bag to be placed into a clean container and transferred into the cleanroom while retaining the benefits of vacuum-bag packaging. Inside the cleanroom, the mount can be removed from the inner bag when ready for use.

Spanner Bit and Torque Driver Application
Click to Enlarge

Spanner bits and the TD24 torque driver can be used to mount optics in the POLARIS-05XY and POLARIS-1XY mounts.

Click to Enlarge

POLARIS-1XY Mount with Lens

Through thermal changes and vibrations, these Polaris translation mounts are designed to provide years of use. Below are some usage tips to ensure that the mounts provide optimal performance.

Mounting Considerations
Due to its relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion, stainless steel was chosen as the material from which to fabricate the front and back plates of these Polaris mounts. When mounting, we recommend using components fabricated from the same material, such as our Ø1" Posts for Polaris Mirror Mounts and Polaris Clamping Arms. These posts are made of stainless steel and provide two lines of contact with the mount, which help confine the bottom of the mount during variations in the surrounding temperature, thereby minimizing potential alignment issues.

To minimize the impact of vibrations and temperature changes, it is recommended that your setup has as low of a profile as possible. Using short posts will reduce the Y-axis translation caused by temperature variations and will minimize any movements caused by vibrations. Mount the Polaris directly onto a flat surface such as a breadboard using a 8-32 to 1/4"-20 thread adapter (Item # AE8E25E) or M4 x 0.7 to M6 x 1.0 adapter (Item # AE4M6M) with a beam height of 1.25" (31.8 mm). Using this mounting method, the instability introduced by a post will be eliminated.

Optic Mounting
Since an optic is prone to movement within its mounting bore, all optics should be mounted with the Polaris out of the setup to ensure accurate mounting that will minimize misalignment effects. As shown to the right, we recommend using a TD24 torque wrench with an SPB1 Spanner Bit for SM1-threaded Polaris mounts or with an SPB05 Spanner Bit for SM05-threaded Polaris mounts. See the Specs tab for recommended torques. Over torquing the optic retaining rings can result in dramatic surface distortions.

Mounting SM05- and SM1-Threaded Components
Since the front optic plate of these Polaris mounts can move independently from the other plates, it is important to hold all the plates together while mounting SM-threaded components. This ensures that the front plate will not rotate with respect to the other plates and damage the flexure between them.

Lock nut installation demonstrated with the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut on one of our low-distortion Polaris mounts. To install a lock nut without cross threading, gently place the lock nut against the end of the adjuster. "Unscrew" the nut until the threads of the nut and the adjuster align; then thread the nut onto the adjuster.

Translation Limits
Each axis of the Polaris mounts translates ±2.0 mm from the mount's nominal center. To prevent accidental damage to the mount, translation limit stops are placed at the ends the translation ranges. Care should be taken when actuating the adjuster screws near the limits to prevent overdriving the mount and causing damage.

Polish and Clean the Points of Contact
We highly recommend that the points of contact between the mount and the post, as well as the post and the table, are clean and free of scratches or defects. For best results, we recommend using a polishing stone to clean the table’s surface and a polishing pad (Item # LFG1P) for the top and bottom of the post as well as the bottom of the mount.

Not Recommended
We do not recommend taking the adjusters out of the body, as this can contaminate the threading and reduce the fine adjustment performance significantly. Also, do not pull the front plate away as it might stretch the springs beyond their operating range or crack the sapphire seats.

Adjuster Lock Nuts
The POLARIS-05XY and POLARIS-1XY mounts are compatible with the POLARIS-LN05 adjuster lock nuts to provide an additional way to lock to the adjusters. For long term stability, we recommend using both the adjuster lock nuts and the translation locks.

To avoid cross threading the POLARIS-LN05 during installation, place it against the adjuster and "unscrew" the lock nut until you feel a slight drop, then thread the lock nut onto the adjuster (see the animation to the left). Each lock nut is pre-greased with the same ultra-high-vacuum-compatible, low-outgassing PTFE grease as the Polaris mounts and has been tested for adjuster fit.

Threading Specifications

The following is a general overview of screw threading. For more details regarding specifications and dimensions, please consult the Machinery's Handbook, available for purchase at many bookstores.

Features of a Thread
A thread consists of three repeating features: a crest, flank, and root (see drawing to the right). Except in special cases, threads have symmetrical sides inclined at equal angles when a vertical line is drawn through the center of a crest or root. The distance between corresponding points on adjacent threads is known as the pitch of the thread. The flank angle is defined as the angle the flank makes with a perpendicular ray drawn from the screw axis. Unless otherwise stated, threads have a flank angle of 30°, resulting in a total angle between flanks of 60°. Each feature is shown in the diagram to the right.

The major diameter is taken from the crests of a thread while the minor diameter is taken from the roots. For most screws, crests and roots do not terminate at a sharp point, so crest and root truncation values are included in the definitions of major and minor diameter. The pitch diameter is approximately halfway between the major and minor diameters.

Thread Form
A thread form is a set of rules that define the features' scale relative to one another. Common thread forms include the Unified Screw Thread Form, used in the United States of America and measured in imperial units, and the ISO Metric Screw Thread Form, used in many parts of the world and measured with the International System of Units. There are many thread forms in the Unified screw thread standard designated by either UN, which defines a flat root contour, or UNR, which defines a round root contour. These can be further described by appending more letters. For example, an extremely fine thread with a flat root contour is designated UNEF. Those forms which are not standardized by the Unified screw thread system are designated UNS.

Thread Series
Most screws are identified by their thread series. Thread series are denoted by the major diameter and density of threads. Unified threads specify density in threads per inch, while Metric threads specify the thread pitch. For example, in the Unified nomenclature, a 1/4"-20 cap screw has a 1/4" diameter barrel and the pitch is 20 threads per inch (TPI). In metric nomenclature, an M4 x 0.7 cap screw has a 4 mm barrel and the pitch is 1 thread per 0.7 mm. The term M4 x 0.7 is often shortened to just M4.

Unified Thread Class Tolerancing
Location Loose Optimal Strict
Internal 1B 2B 3B
External 1A 2A 3A
Metric Thread Tolerance Positions
Location Loose Optimal Strict
Internal - G H
External e or f g h
Metric Thread Tolerance Grades
Dimension Location Tolerance Gradesa
Minor Diameter Internal 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Major Diameter External 4, 6, 8
Pitch Diameter Internal 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
External 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • The tolerance becomes looser as the grade increases. The underlined grades are used with normal lengths of thread engagement.

Thread Class
The tolerances and allowances on a thread series are given by a thread class. Unified thread classes are alphanumeric identifiers starting with a number from 1 through 3, where 1 is the loosest tolerance and 3 is the tightest, and either A for external threading or B for internal threading.

Metric threads have a slightly more complex tolerancing method that uses tolerancing grades, designated by a number 3 through 9; and tolerancing positions, which use letters e through h. Grades provide a measure of the tolerance itself: the smaller the number, the tighter the tolerance. Positions denote the distance of the tolerance from the pitch diameter. Uppercase positioning letters indicate internal threads while lowercase positioning letters indicate external threads.

Quoting from the Machinery's Handbook, 29th Edition, p. 1885: "To designate the tolerance class, the grade and position of the pitch diameter is shown first followed by that for the major diameter in the case of the external thread or that for the minor diameter in the case of the internal thread, thus 4g6g for an external thread and 5H6H for an internal thread. If the two grades and positions are identical, it is not necessary to repeat the symbols, thus 4g, alone, stands for 4g4g and 5H, alone, stands for 5H5H."

Thorlabs' SM Series Threads
Threading specifications for our SM threads, utilized in our lens tube and cage system components, are given below so that you can machine mating components to suit your application. Most SM series threads utilize a non-standard Unified thread form, indicated by the letters UNS, with a 30° flank angle and a thread class of 2A and 2B. The exception is our SM30 series thread, which is a Metric thread form with a 30° flank angle and a tolerance of 6H/6g. We also offer products with C-Mount and RMS threads, and the specifications for these threads are given below for reference. Please note that other manufacturers may have different tolerances for C-Mount and RMS threads. For other thread specifications that are not listed here, please contact Tech Support.

SM05 Threading: Ø1/2" Lens Tubes, 16 mm Cage Systems
External Thread, 0.535"-40.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 0.535"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 0.5340" Min Major Diameter 0.5350"
Min Major Diameter 0.5289" Min Pitch Diameter 0.5188"
Max Pitch Diameter 0.5178" Max Pitch Diameter 0.5230"
Min Pitch Diameter 0.5146" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 0.508"
Max Minor Diameter 0.5069" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 0.514"
RMS Threading: Objective, Scan, and Tube Lenses
External Thread, 0.800"-36.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 0.800"-36.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 0.7989" Min Major Diameter 0.8000"
Min Major Diameter 0.7934" Min Pitch Diameter 0.7820"
Max Pitch Diameter 0.7809" Max Pitch Diameter 0.7866"
Min Pitch Diameter 0.7774" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 0.770"
Max Minor Diameter 0.7688" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 0.777"
C-Mount Threading: Machine Vision Lenses, CCD/CMOS Cameras
External Thread, 1.000"-32.0 UN-2A Internal Thread, 1.000"-32.0 UN-2B
Max Major Diameter 0.9989" Min Major Diameter 1.0000"
Min Major Diameter 0.9929" Min Pitch Diameter 0.9797"
Max Pitch Diameter 0.9786" Max Pitch Diameter 0.9846"
Min Pitch Diameter 0.9748" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 0.966"
Max Minor Diameter 0.9651" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 0.974"
SM1 Threading: Ø1" Lens Tubes, 30 mm Cage Systems
External Thread, 1.035"-40.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 1.035"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 1.0339" Min Major Diameter 1.0350"
Min Major Diameter 1.0288" Min Pitch Diameter 1.0188"
Max Pitch Diameter 1.0177" Max Pitch Diameter 1.0234"
Min Pitch Diameter 1.0142" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 1.008"
Max Minor Diameter 1.0068" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 1.014"
SM30 Threading: Ø30 mm Lens Tubes
External Thread, M30.5 x 0.5 – 6H/6g Internal Thread, M30.5 x 0.5 – 6H/6g
Max Major Diameter 30.480 mm Min Major Diameter 30.500 mm
Min Major Diameter 30.371 mm Min Pitch Diameter 30.175 mm
Max Pitch Diameter 30.155 mm Max Pitch Diameter 30.302 mm
Min Pitch Diameter 30.059 mm Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 29.959 mm
Max Minor Diameter 29.938 mm Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 30.094 mm
SM1.5 Threading: Ø1.5" Lens Tubes
External Thread, 1.535"-40 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 1.535"-40 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 1.5339" Min Major Diameter 1.535"
Min Major Diameter 1.5288" Min Pitch Diameter 1.5188"
Max Pitch Diameter 1.5177" Max Pitch Diameter 1.5236"
Min Pitch Diameter 1.5140" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 1.508"
Max Minor Diameter 1.5068" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 1.514"
SM2 Threading: Ø2" Lens Tubes, 60 mm Cage Systems
External Thread, 2.035"-40.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 2.035"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 2.0338" Min Major Diameter 2.0350"
Min Major Diameter 2.0287" Min Pitch Diameter 2.0188"
Max Pitch Diameter 2.0176" Max Pitch Diameter 2.0239"
Min Pitch Diameter 2.0137" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 2.008"
Max Minor Diameter 2.0067" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 2.014"
SM3 Threading: Ø3" Lens Tubes
External Thread, 3.035"-40.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 3.035"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 3.0337" Min Major Diameter 3.0350"
Min Major Diameter 3.0286" Min Pitch Diameter 3.0188"
Max Pitch Diameter 3.0175" Max Pitch Diameter 3.0242"
Min Pitch Diameter 3.0133" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 3.008"
Max Minor Diameter 3.0066" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 3.014"
SM4 Threading: Ø4" Lens Tubes
External Thread, 4.035"-40 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 4.035"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 4.0337" Min Major Diameter 4.0350"
Min Major Diameter 4.0286" Min Pitch Diameter 4.0188"
Max Pitch Diameter 4.0175" Max Pitch Diameter 4.0245"
Min Pitch Diameter 4.0131" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 4.008"
Max Minor Diameter 4.0066" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 4.014"

Posted Comments:
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If your application requires an optic mount design that is not available below, please contact Tech Support.

Thorlabs offers several different general varieties of Polaris mounts, including kinematic side optic retention, SM-threaded, low optic distortion, piezo-actuated, vertical drive, and glue-in optic mounts, a fixed monolithic mirror mount and fixed optic mounts, XY translation mounts, 5-axis kinematic mount, and a kinematic platform mount. Refer to the tables below for our complete line of Polaris mounts, grouped by mount type, optic bore size, and then arranged by optic retention method and adjuster type (or intended application in the case of fixed mounts). We also offer a line of accessories that have been specifically designed for use with our Polaris mounts; these are listed in the table to the lower right. Note that the tables below list Item # suffixes that omit the "POLARIS" prefix for brevity. Click the photos below for details.

Polaris Mount Optic Retention Methods
Side Lock SM Threaded Low Distortion Glue-In
Polaris Mount Adjuster Types
Side Hole Hex Adjuster Knobs Adjuster
Lock Nuts
Piezo Adjusters Vertical-Drive Adjusters
Polaris Kinematic Mounts for Round Optics
Optic Retention Method Side Lock SM Threaded Low Distortion Glue-In
Ø1/2" Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters - - - -K05C4
-K05G4
2 Hex Adjusters -K05S1 -K05T1 -K05F1 -
2 Adjusters with Lock Nuts -K05S2 -K05T2 -K05F2 -
2 Piezoelectric Adjusters -K05P2 - - -
2 Vertical Adjusters -K05VS2
-K05VS2L
- - -
3 Hex Adjusters -K05 - - -
3 Adjusters with Lock Nuts - -K05T6 -K05F6 -
3 Adjuster Knobs (Tip/Tilt/Z) &
2 Hex Adjusters (X/Y)
- -K05XY - -
Ø19 mm (3/4") Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters -K19S4 - -K19F4/M -K19G4
Ø25 mm Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters -K25S4/M - -K25F4/M -
Ø1" Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters -K1S4 - - -K1C4
-K1G4
2 Hex Adjusters -K1E2
-K1-2AH
-K1T2 -K1F2 -
2 Adjuster Knobs - -K1T1 -K1F1 -
2 Piezoelectric Adjusters -K1S2P - - -
2 Vertical Adjusters -K1VS2
-K1VS2L
- - -
3 Side Hole Adjuster -K1S5 - - -
3 Hex Adjusters -K1E3
-K1-H
-K1T3 - -
3 Adjuster Knobs -K1E
-K1
-K1T -K1F -
3 Piezoelectric Adjusters -K1S3P - - -
3 Adjuster Knobs (Tip/Tilt/Z) &
2 Hex Adjusters (X/Y)
- -K1XY - -
Optic Retention Method Side Lock SM Threaded Low Distortion Glue-In
Ø1.5" Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters -K15S4 - -K15F4 -
2 Vertical Adjusters -K15VS2
-K15VS2L
- - -
3 Adjuster Knobs (Tip/Tilt/Z) &
2 Hex Adjusters (X/Y)
- -K15XY - -
Ø50 mm Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters -K50S4/M - -K50F4/M -
Ø2" Optics
2 Hex Adjusters -K2S2 -K2T2 -K2F2 -
2 Adjuster Knobs -K2S1 -K2T1 -K2F1 -
2 Piezoelectric Adjusters -K2S2P - - -
2 Vertical Adjusters -K2VS2
-K2VS2L
- - -
3 Hex Adjusters -K2S3 -K2T3 -K2F3 -
3 Adjuster Knobs -K2 -K2T -K2F -
Ø3" Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters -K3S4 - - -
3 Side Hole Adjusters -K3S5 - - -
Ø4" Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters - - -K4F4 -
Ø6" Optics
2 Side Hole Adjusters - - -K6F4 -
Polaris XY Translation Mounts for Round Optics
Optic Retention Method SM Threaded Representative Photos
Ø1/2" Optics

2 Hex Adjusters (X/Y) -05XY
3 Adjuster Knobs (Tip/Tilt/Z) &
2 Hex Adjusters (X/Y)
-K05XY
Ø1" Optics
2 Hex Adjusters (X/Y) -1XY
3 Adjuster Knobs (Tip/Tilt/Z) &
2 Hex Adjusters (X/Y)
-K1XY
Ø1.5" Optics
2 Hex Adjusters (X/Y) &
3 Adjuster Knobs (Tip/Tilt/Z)
-K15XY
Polaris Fixed Mounts for Round Optics
Optic Retention Method Side Lock Low
Distortion
Glue-In Representative
Photos
Ø1/2" Optics





Optimized for Mirrors - -B05F -C05G
Optimized for Beamsplitters -B05S - -B05G
Optimized for Lenses - - -L05G
Ø19 mm (Ø3/4") Optics
Optimized for Mirrors -19S50/M - -
Ø1" Optics
Optimized for Mirrors - -B1F -C1G
Optimized for Beamsplitters -B1S - -B1G
Optimized for Lenses - - -L1G
Ø2" Optics
Optimized for Mirrors - -B2F -C2G
Optimized for Beamsplitters -B2S - -
Polaris Kinematic 1.8" x 1.8" Platform Mount
Optomech Retention Method Tapped Holes &
Counterbores
2 Adjuster Knobs -K1M4(/M)
Accessories for Polaris Mounts
Description Representative Photos
Ø1" Posts for Polaris Mounts
Polaris Non-Bridging Clamping Arms
Polaris 45° Mounting Adapter
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Polaris® XY Translation Mount for Ø1/2" Optics

Dowel Pin Holes
Click to Enlarge

Polaris mounts have two Ø2 mm dowel pin holes by each #8 (M4) mounting bore for alignment.
Translation Features
Click to Enlarge

Y-axis translation features are shown above. The X-axis adjuster and lock are also visible but not labelled.
  • ±2.0 mm XY Translation Range
  • SM05 (0.535"-40) Threading for Mounting Ø1/2" Optics up to 0.20" (5 mm) Thick
  • 2-Adjuster, Hex-Driven Design
  • 130 TPI Matched Actuator/Body Pairs
  • <5 µrad Deviation after 13.5 °C Temperature Cycling (See the Test Data Tab for Details)

The POLARIS-05XY XY Translation Mount for Ø1/2" Optics offers ±2.0 mm of XY travel and is designed to provide easy high-resolution adjustment (0.2 mm/rev) and long-term alignment stability. The mount features a patent pending flexure preloading mechanism which keeps the translation smooth and repeatable. It is also designed to be compatible with cleanroom and vacuum applications.

The POLARIS-05XY mount features two 3/16"-130 TPI fine adjusters, each with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex, which may be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrews (sold separately below), the hex on the end of the SA1 tool, or any other 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex wrench. The adjusters on this mount can be locked using the integrated translation locks with 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex or with POLARIS-LN05 lock nuts (sold separately below). Note that the integrated lock for each axis is adjacent to the adjuster for the other axis, as illustrated for the y-axis in the photo to the right. For long term stability, we recommend using both the adjuster lock nuts and the translation locks.

A stainless-steel retaining ring (included) is used to hold optics up to 0.20" (5 mm) thick. Additional retaining rings (Item # POLARIS-SM05RR) can also be purchased separately. This mount is also equipped with two engraved scales that provide a translation reference with 0.5 mm tick spacing.

Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) bores. For custom mounting configurations, two Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on each mounting face (as shown in the photo above) for setting a precise location and mounting angle. Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended. We recommend using this mount with a stainless steel post, such as our Ø1" Posts for Polaris Mirror Mounts.

Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1/2" optics and are not intended for use with Ø12.5 mm metric optics.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
POLARIS-05XY Support Documentation
POLARIS-05XYPolaris XY Translation Mount for Ø1/2" Optics, #8 (M4) Mounting Bores
$1,020.00
Today
POLARIS-SM05RR Support Documentation
POLARIS-SM05RRStainless Steel SM05 (0.535"-40) Threaded Retaining Ring
$9.57
Today
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Polaris® XY Translation Mount for Ø1" Optics

Dowel Pin Holes
Click to Enlarge

Polaris mounts have two Ø2 mm dowel pin holes by each #8 (M4) mounting bore for alignment.
Translation Features
Click to Enlarge

Y-axis translation features are shown above. The X-axis adjuster and lock are also visible but not labelled.
  • ±2.0 mm XY Translation Range
  • SM1 (1.035"-40) Threading for Mounting Ø1" Optics up to 0.20" (5 mm) Thick
  • 2-Adjuster, Hex-Driven Design
  • 130 TPI Matched Actuator/Body Pairs
  • <5 µrad Deviation after 10 °C Temperature Cycling (See the Test Data Tab for Details)

The POLARIS-1XY XY Translation Mount for Ø1" Optics offers ±2.0 mm of XY travel and is designed to provide easy high-resolution adjustment (0.2 mm/rev) and long-term alignment stability. The mount features a patent pending flexure preloading mechanism which keeps the translation smooth and repeatable. It is also designed to be compatible with cleanroom and vacuum applications.

The POLARIS-1XY mount features two 3/16"-130 TPI fine adjusters, each with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex, which may be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrews (sold separately below), the hex on the end of the SA1 tool, or any other 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex wrench. The adjusters on this mount can be locked using the integrated translation locks with 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex or with POLARIS-LN05 lock nuts (sold separately below). Note that the integrated lock for each axis is adjacent to the adjuster for the other axis, as illustrated for the y-axis in the photo to the right. For long term stability, we recommend using both the adjuster lock nuts and the translation locks.

A stainless-steel retaining ring (included) is used to hold optics up to 0.20" (5 mm) thick. Additional retaining rings (Item # POLARIS-SM1RR) can also be purchased separately. This mount is also equipped with two engraved scales that provide a translation reference with 0.5 mm tick spacing.

Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) bores. For custom mounting configurations, two Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on each mounting face (as shown in the photo above) for setting a precise location and mounting angle. Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended. We recommend using this mount with a stainless steel post, such as our Ø1" Posts for Polaris Mirror Mounts.

Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1" optics and are not intended for use with Ø25 mm metric optics.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
POLARIS-1XY Support Documentation
POLARIS-1XYPolaris XY Translation Mount for Ø1" Optics, #8 (M4) Mounting Bores
$1,017.45
Lead Time
POLARIS-SM1RR Support Documentation
POLARIS-SM1RRCustomer Inspired! Stainless Steel SM1 (1.035"-40) Threaded Retaining Ring
$13.16
Today
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5/64" Hex Key Adjusters

POLARIS-K1 with HKTS-5/64 Adjuster
Click for Details

POLARIS-K1E with HKTS-5/64 Adjuster
  • For Convenient Adjustment of 5/64" and 2 mm Hex-Driven Actuators
  • Red Anodized Adjustment Knob with Engraved Hex Size
  • Replaceable Hex Tip
  • Sold in Packages of 4

These 5/64" Hex Key Adjuster Thumbscrews allow for quick adjustment of many 5/64" and 2 mm hex-driven actuators (or standard actuators with the knobs removed). These temporary knobs can be left in the screw's hex socket between adjustments for convenience (see photo to the right). An 8-32 setscrew (5/64" hex) secures the replaceable hex bit, which can be reversed if the tip is stripped. Contact Tech Support to order replacement hex key bits.

We offer hex key thumbscrews in sizes from 0.050" to 3/16" and 2 mm to 5 mm.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
HKTS-5/64 Support Documentation
HKTS-5/64Customer Inspired! 5/64" (2 mm) Hex Key Thumbscrew, 4 Pack
$28.42
Today
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3/16"-130 Adjuster Lock Nut for Polaris Mounts

To install a lock nut without cross threading, gently place the lock nut against the end of the adjuster. "Unscrew" the nut until the threads of the nut and the adjuster align before threading the nut onto the adjuster. This animation shows the installation of a POLARIS-LN1 lock nut on a POLARIS-K1F1 low distortion mount.


Click for Details

POLARIS-LN05 Lock Nuts on a POLARIS-K19S4 Mount
  • Provide Long Term Adjuster Stability
  • Compatible with Select Polaris Mounts

These lock nuts are designed for use with Polaris mounts with 3/16"-130 adjusters. Designed for long-term adjuster stability or applications that are exposed to shock and vibration, these lock nuts are pre-greased with the same ultra-high-vacuum-compatible, low-outgassing PTFE grease as the Polaris mounts and have been tested for adjuster fit.

For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the lock nuts only need to be lightly tightened by hand. POLARIS-LN05 lock nuts require a 6 mm hex tool for tightening. To avoid cross threading the lock nut, place it against the adjuster and "unscrew" the lock nut until you feel a slight drop; then thread the lock nut onto the adjuster.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
POLARIS-LN05 Support Documentation
POLARIS-LN053/16"-130 Lock Nut, 6 mm Hex, Stainless Steel
$14.33
Today