Parabolic Mirrors Key Terms

Understand the key terms associated with parabolic mirrors

By Shannon Tani

A parabolic mirror has many uses, both in the scientific world and as a way to improve solar power. If you're not familiar with parabolic mirrors key terms, however, you may not be sure what type you need. You may need to purchase an off-axis parabolic mirror or a diamond-turned parabolic mirror. It also helps to understand optical replication and the mirror's focal point. Learn the following words to help you make a decision about parabolic mirrors.

Off-axis parabolic mirror

An off-axis parabolic mirror is a mirror that has been cut off from a larger parabolic mirror. This means that it doesn't have the same parabola shape that you would expect from a traditional parabolic mirror.
Try: ZEMAX has an article on demystifying the off-axis parabolic mirror that explains its uses.

Diamond-turned parabolic mirror

A diamond-turned parabolic mirror has more than one focal point. This presents a diversion from the more traditional type of parabolic mirror.
Try: II-VI Infrared explains diamond-turned optics, such as parabolic mirrors and shows pictures.

Parabolic reflectors

Parabolic reflector is the term used for a mirror that captures and reflects light. They are typically used in professional photography, to increase the power of the flash. More recently, they are also being used in solar power applications, magnifying the effects of the sun to increase the amount of energy collected by solar panels.
Try: See an example of parabolic reflectors at Scientifics.

Parabolic telescope mirror

A parabolic telescope mirror is used in large telescopes. They take in the light from the stars and reflect it into a focal point. This is the image that you see.
Try: R.F. Royce makes parabolic telescope mirrors and shows a picture on its site.

Optical replication

The optical replication process is what is used in a parabolic mirror. In this process, the original is treated with a release layer and a negative of the surface is attached. This can then be used to create a replication of the original.
Try: Spectrum Scientific describes the optical replication process and offers a diagram to illustrate the concept.

Focal point

Because parabolic mirrors have a concave curved shape to them, the light that they reflect is not straight, as in a traditional mirror. Rather, the curve of the mirror focuses all light into a single point, called the focal point.
Try: Learn about the focal point and how to calculate it Michigan State University.