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Polaris® SM-Threaded Low Drift Kinematic Mirror Mounts![]()
POLARIS-K05T6 SM05-Threaded Mount Shown with a Fiber Collimator and AD1109F Adapter
POLARIS-K2T1 2-Adjuster SM2-Threaded Polaris Mount
POLARIS-K1T 3-Adjuster SM1-Threaded Mount
Related Items ![]() Please Wait ![]() Click to Enlarge Each Polaris mount undergoes extensive thermal testing to ensure high-quality performance. Please see the Test Data tab for additional test results.
Features
Polaris® SM-Threaded Kinematic Mirror Mounts are the ultimate solution for applications requiring stringent long-term alignment stability. Optic Retention Polaris optic bores are precision machined to achieve a fit that will provide optimum beam pointing stability over changing environmental conditions such as temperature changes, transportation shock, and vibration. 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 (Ø12.5 mm, Ø25 mm, or Ø50 mm). Design Post Mounting Cleanroom and Vacuum Compatibility
Polaris® Mirror Mounts Test DataAll of the Polaris Low-Drift Kinematic Mirror Mounts have undergone extensive testing to ensure high-quality performance. After mounting the Polaris to a Ø1" stainless steel post, the mirror and post assembly was secured to a stainless steel optical table in a temperature-controlled environment. A beam from an independently temperature-stabilized laser diode was reflected by the mirror onto a position sensing detector. The mirror was secured between the two retaining rings included with the Polaris mount, not using epoxy. Positional Repeatability After Thermal ShockPurpose: This testing was done to determine how reliably the mount returns the mirror, 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 mirror mount tested was raised to 37 °C and maintained for a given soak time. Then the temperature of the mirror mount was returned to the starting temperature. The results of these tests are shown below. Results: As can be seen in the plots in the expandable tables below, when the Polaris mounts were returned to their initial temperature, the angular position (both pitch and yaw) of the mirrors returned to within 2 µrad of its initial position. The performance of the Polaris was tested further by subjecting the mount to repeated temperature change cycles. After each cycle, the mirror’s position reliably returned to within 2 µrad of its initial position. For Comparison: To get a 1 µrad change in the mount’s position, the 100 TPI adjuster on the Ø1" Polaris mounts needs to be rotated by only 0.05° (1/7200 of a turn). A highly skilled operator might be able to make an adjustment as small as 0.3° (1/1200 of a turn), which corresponds to 6 µrad. Conclusions: The Polaris Mirror Mounts are high-quality, ultra-stable mounts that will reliably return a mirror to its original position after cycling through a temperature change. As a result, the Polaris mounts are ideal for use in applications that require long-term alignment stability.
![]() Click to Enlarge Design Features of the Polaris SM-Threaded Mounts Several common factors typically lead to beam misalignment in an optical setup. These include temperature-induced hysteresis of the mirror's position, crosstalk, drift, and backlash. Polaris mirror 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 kinematic mirror mount. Thermal Hysteresis The method by which the mirror is secured in the mount is another important design factor for the Polaris; these Polaris mounts offer excellent performance without the use of adhesives. Instead, they have SM05-, SM1-, or SM2-threaded bores and two stainless steel retaining rings that hold the optic in place. The holding force provided by the stainless steel retaining rings is sufficient to keep the mirror locked into place regardless of the ambient temperature. This bore also allows other SM05-, SM1-, or SM2-threaded components to be secured in the mounts. Crosstalk Drift and Backlash ![]() Click to Enlarge Polaris Mounts are Shipped Inside Two Vacuum Bag Layers Cleanroom and Vacuum Compatibility 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 8-32 and M4 cap screws included with the Polaris mounts are not rated for pressures below 10-5 Torr. 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. These vacuum bags do not contain any desiccant materials and tightly wrap the mount preventing friction against the mount during shipping. This packing method protects the mount from corrosion, gas or liquid contamination, and particulates during transport. The first vacuum bag should be opened in a clean environment while the second vacuum bag should only be opened just prior to installation. 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. ![]() Click for Details Spanner Bits and the TD24 Torque Driver Can Be Used to Mount Optics in SM-Threaded Polaris Mirror Mounts Through thermal changes and vibrations, the Polaris kinematic mirror mounts are designed to provide years of use. Below are some usage tips to ensure that the mount provides optimal performance. Match Materials Use a Wide Post Optic Mounting Mounting SM-Threaded Components Front Plate’s Position Mount as Close to the Table’s Surface as Possible 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. Polish and Clean the Points of Contact Not Recommended Adjuster Lock Nuts To avoid cross threading the POLARIS-LN1 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. Thorlabs' Threading SpecificationsThorlabs' lens tubes utilize a series of non-standard threadings. Threading specifications are given below for our SM threadings utilized in our lens tube and cage system components so that you can machine mating components to suit your application. We also offer products with C-Mount and RMS threadings, and the specifications for these threadings are also given below. Please note that other manufacturers may have different tolerances for these threads. For other thread specifications that are not listed here, 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, and glue-in optic mounts, as well as a fixed monolithic mirror mount and fixed optic mounts. Click to expand the tables below and see our complete line of Polaris mounts, listed by optic bore size, and then arranged by optic retention method and adjuster type. We also offer a line of accessories that have been specifically designed for use with our Polaris mounts; these are listed in the table immediately below. If your application requires a mirror mount design that is not available below, please contact Tech Support.
![]() ![]() Click to Enlarge Fixed Fiber Collimator Mounted in the POLARIS-K05T6 using the AD1109F Thread Adapter
The POLARIS-K05T6 Kinematic Mirror Mount contains an SM05-threaded (0.535"-40) bore for mounting Ø1/2" optics up to 0.25" (6.4 mm) thick or other components, as shown to the right. Kinematic adjustment is provided by three 130 TPI adjusters that are compatible with 5/64" hex keys; they may be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrew (sold below) or any other 5/64" (2 mm) hex wrench. The three-adjuster design provides tip and tilt plus Z-axis (optical axis) adjustment. Two-adjuster versions are also available below. This mirror mount comes with three adjuster lock nuts that can be tightened by holding the adjuster with a 5/64" (2 mm) hex key while tightening the lock nut by hand or with a 6 mm open-ended wrench. For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the lock nuts only need to be lightly tightened to a torque of approximately 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m). For long term stability, we recommend tightening to a torque of 24 oz-in, which can be achieved by using our TW6 preset torque wrench (sold below). Two stainless steel retaining rings (included) are used to hold the mounted optic. Additional retaining rings (POLARIS-SM05RR) can also be purchased separately. Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) counterbores. Due to the shallow design of the counterbores, low-profile 8-32 and M4 cap screws are included for mounting without obstructing the transmissive beam path. The 8-32 cap screw accepts a 5/64" (2 mm) hex wrench, while the M4 cap screw accepts a 2.5 mm hex wrench. For custom mounting configurations, Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on both sides of each counterbore for setting a precise location and mounting angle. Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended; see the Docs icon ( a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1/2" Optics and are not intended for use with the Ø12.5 mm metric mirror size. ![]()
POLARIS-K05T1 (Left) with Low-Profile Adjusters and POLARIS-K05T2 (Right) with Standard-Profile Adjusters and Lock Nuts
These 2-adjuster Ø1/2" Polaris Kinematic Mirror Mounts are similar to the standard 3-adjuster version sold above but feature a hardened steel ball in place of the third adjuster. The 2-adjuster design improves mount stability by limiting the available degrees of freedom for movement. An SM05-threaded (0.535"-40) bore allows for mounting Ø1/2" optics up to 0.25" (6.4 mm) thick or other SM05-threaded components. For fitting into tight spaces, the POLARIS-K05T1 mount is equipped with low-profile hex adjusters that are 0.15" (3.8 mm) shorter than the adjusters on the POLARIS-K05T2; due to the shorter adjusters, the POLARIS-K05T1 does not include lock nuts. The hex actuators are compatible with 5/64" (2 mm) hex keys and may be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrew (sold below) or any other 5/64" (2 mm) hex wrench. The POLARIS-K05T2 mount has standard-profile hex adjusters and includes two adjuster lock nuts that can be tightened by holding the adjuster with a 5/64" (2 mm) hex key while tightening the lock nut by hand or with a 6 mm open-ended wrench. For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the lock nuts only need to be lightly tightened to a torque of approximately 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m). For long term stability, we recommend tightening to a torque of 24 oz-in, which can be achieved by using our TW6 preset torque wrench (sold below). Two stainless steel retaining rings (included) are used to hold the mounted optic. Additional retaining rings (POLARIS-SM05RR) can also be purchased separately. Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) counterbores. Due to the shallow design of the counterbores, low-profile 8-32 and M4 cap screws are included for mounting without obstructing the transmissive beam path. The 8-32 cap screw accepts a 5/64" (2 mm) hex wrench, while the M4 cap screw accepts a 2.5 mm hex wrench. For custom mounting configurations, Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on both sides of each counterbore for setting a precise location and mounting angle. Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended; see the Docs icon ( a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1/2" Optics and are not intended for use with the Ø12.5 mm metric mirror size. ![]() ![]() Click to Enlarge Polaris mounts have two Ø2 mm dowel pin holes by each #8 (M4) counterbore for alignment.
The POLARIS-K1T and POLARIS-K1T3 Kinematic Mirror Mounts feature an SM1-threaded (1.035"-40) bore for mounting Ø1" optics up to 8.6 mm (0.34") thick or other products (see the photo to the far right). The three-adjuster design provides tip and tilt plus Z-axis (optical axis) adjustment. Two-adjuster versions are also available below. The POLARIS-K1T includes three removable Ø0.60" (Ø15.2 mm) adjuster knobs, while the POLARIS-K1T3 is a hex-driven model. The adjusters on both mounts can be driven by a 5/64" (2 mm) hex key or the HKTS-5/64 hex key thumbscrew (sold below), and can be locked using our POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (sold separately below). For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the lock nut or locking collar only needs to be lightly tightened to a torque of approximately 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m). For long term stability, we recommend tightening to a torque of 32 oz-in, which can be achieved by using our TW13 preset torque wrench (sold below). Two stainless steel retaining rings (included) are used to hold the mounted optic. Additional retaining rings (POLARIS-SM1RR) can also be purchased separately. Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) counterbores which can be used with the included 8-32 and M4 cap screws. For custom mounting configurations, Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on both sides of each counterbore for setting a precise location and mounting angle (see photo above). Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended; see the mechanical drawing for details by clicking on the Docs icon ( a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1" Optics and are not intended for use with the Ø25 mm metric mirror size. ![]() ![]() Click to Enlarge POLARIS-K1T2 2-Adjuster Hex-Driven Mount
These 2-adjuster Ø1" Polaris Kinematic Mirror Mounts are similar to the standard 3-adjuster versions sold above but feature a hardened steel ball in place of the third adjuster. The 2-adjuster design improves mount stability by limiting the available degrees of freedom for movement. An SM1-threaded (1.035"-40) bore allows for mounting Ø1" optics up to 8.6 mm (0.34") thick or other SM1-threaded components. The POLARIS-K1T1 includes two removable Ø0.60" (Ø15.2 mm) adjuster knobs, while the POLARIS-K1T2 is a hex-driven model. The adjusters on both mounts can be driven by a 5/64" (2 mm) hex key or the HKTS-5/64 hex key thumbscrew (sold below), and can be locked using our POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (sold separately below). For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the lock nut or locking collar only needs to be lightly tightened to a torque of approximately 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m). For long term stability, we recommend tightening to a torque of 32 oz-in, which can be achieved by using our TW13 preset torque wrench (sold below). Two stainless steel retaining rings (included) are used to hold the mounted optic. Additional retaining rings (POLARIS-SM1RR) can also be purchased separately. Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) counterbores which can be used with the included 8-32 and M4 cap screws. For custom mounting configurations, Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on both sides of each counterbore for setting a precise location and mounting angle (see photo above, to the right). Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended; see the Docs icon ( a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1" Optics and are not intended for use with the Ø25 mm metric mirror size. ![]() ![]() Click to Enlarge POLARIS-K2T Holding a BB2-E03 Broadband Dielectric Mirror and Mounted on a Ø1" Pillar Post Secured by a POLARIS-CA1 Clamping Arm
The POLARIS-K2T and POLARIS-K2T3 Kinematic Mirror Mounts feature an SM2-threaded (2.035"-40) bore for mounting Ø2" optics up to 12.7 mm (0.50") thick or other products (see the photo to the right). The three-adjuster design provides tip and tilt plus Z-axis (optical axis) adjustment. Two-adjuster versions are also available below. The POLARIS-K2T includes three removable Ø0.60" (Ø15.2 mm) adjuster knobs, while the POLARIS-K2T3 is a hex-driven model. The adjusters on both mounts can be driven by a 5/64" (2 mm) hex key or the HKTS-5/64 hex key thumbscrew (sold below), and can be locked using our POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (sold separately below). For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the lock nut or locking collar only needs to be lightly tightened to a torque of approximately 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m). For long term stability, we recommend tightening to a torque of 32 oz-in, which can be achieved by using our TW13 preset torque wrench (sold below). Two stainless steel retaining rings (included) are used to hold the mounted optic. Additional retaining rings (POLARIS-SM2RR) can also be purchased separately. Post mounting is provided by four #8 (M4) counterbores which can be used with the included 8-32 and M4 cap screws. For custom mounting configurations, Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on each mounting face for setting a precise location and mounting angle. Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended; see the Docs icon ( a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø2" Optics and are not intended for use with the Ø50 mm metric mirror size. ![]() ![]() Click to Enlarge POLARIS-K2T2 2-Adjuster Hex-Driven Mount
These 2-adjuster Ø2" Polaris Kinematic Mirror Mounts are similar to the standard 3-adjuster versions sold above but feature a hardened steel ball in place of the third adjuster. The 2-adjuster design improves mount stability by limiting the available degrees of freedom for movement. An SM2-threaded (2.035"-40) bore allows for mounting Ø2" optics up to 12.7 mm (0.50") thick or other SM2-threaded components. The POLARIS-K2T1 includes two removable Ø0.60" (Ø15.2 mm) adjuster knobs, while the POLARIS-K2T2 is a hex-driven model. The adjusters on both mounts can be driven by a 5/64" (2 mm) hex key or the HKTS-5/64 hex key thumbscrew (sold below), and can be locked using our POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (sold separately below). For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the lock nut or locking collar only needs to be lightly tightened to a torque of approximately 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m). For long term stability, we recommend tightening to a torque of 32 oz-in, which can be achieved by using our TW13 preset torque wrench (sold below). Two stainless steel retaining rings (included) are used to hold the mounted optic. Additional retaining rings (POLARIS-SM2RR) can also be purchased separately. Post mounting is provided by four #8 (M4) counterbores which can be used with the included 8-32 and M4 cap screws. For custom mounting configurations, Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on each mounting face for setting a precise location and mounting angle. Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended; see the Docs icon ( a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø2" Optics and are not intended for use with the Ø50 mm metric mirror size. ![]() ![]() Click to Enlarge F25USK2 Knob Shown Attached to a POLARIS-K1 Mirror Mount
This removable adjustment knob is compatible with many of our 1/4"-100 adjusters, including those used in the Ø1" and Ø2" Polaris Kinematic Mounts and our Polaris Kinematic Platform Mount. The larger Ø0.925" size provides additional angular resolution over the standard Polaris knobs. Please note that the F25USK2 knob is not compatible with Polaris mounts that use side-hole adjusters. The recessed bore of knob is not deep enough to allow the knob to engage the threads on the side-hole adjuster. ![]()
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. ![]() 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 to Enlarge POLARIS-LN05 Lock Nuts on a POLARIS-K19S4 Mount
These lock nuts are designed for use with Polaris kinematic mounts that do not use low-profile adjusters. The POLARIS-LN05 lock nut can be used with 3/16"-130 adjusters, while the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut is for 1/4"-100 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 to a torque of approximately 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m). If long term stability is required, the torque wrenches below can be used to apply the appropriate amount of torque to each lock nut (see the table below for torque values). POLARIS-LN05 lock nuts require a 6 mm hex tool for tightening, while POLARIS-LN1 lock nuts require a 13 mm hex tool. 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. ![]()
This locking collar is compatible with Polaris mounts that have 1/4"-100 adjusters, excluding the piezo-driven mounts and mounts with low-profile adjusters (Item #s POLARIS-K1-H and POLARIS-K1-2AH). Designed for long-term adjuster stability or applications that are exposed to shock and vibration, these locking collars 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. The POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench has been specifically designed for use in securing the POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar. The double spanner head enables complete engagement while the design allows locking collar adjustments to be along the same line as the adjuster itself. A center through hole allows a 2 mm ball driver to pass through the spanner wrench, so that the adjuster can be held in position while the locking collar is engaged. For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the locking collar only needs to be lightly tightened to a torque of approximately 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m). For long term stability, we recommend tightening to a torque of 32 oz-in, which can be achieved by using our TW13 preset torque wrench (sold below) in combination with the POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench. To avoid cross threading the locking collar, place it against the adjuster and "unscrew" the collar until you feel a slight drop; then thread the collar onto the adjuster. ![]() ![]() Click to Enlarge TW6 Torque Wrench Used to Secure POLARIS-LN05 Lock Nut on POLARIS-K05T2 Mirror Mount ![]() Click to Enlarge Each wrench is engraved with its preset torque value and item #.
These torque wrenches have a preset torque value to secure the lock nuts on Polaris mounts for long-term locking; see the table below for specifications. When the preset torque value has been achieved, the break-over design will cause the pivoting joint to "break," as shown to the right. The wrench's hex head will move back into place once the force is removed. This design prevents further force from being applied to the lock nut. Engraved guidelines indicate the angle the wrench should pivot in order to apply the specified torque; pivoting the handle past these guidelines will over-torque the lock nut. Each wrench is also engraved with its preset torque value, torque direction, wrench size, and item # for easy identification in the field. Please note that these wrenches are not intended for use in applications where adjusters are frequently tuned, as these applications typically require torque values of 4 to 8 oz-in (0.03 to 0.06 N·m).
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