Polaris® Low-Distortion Kinematic Mirror Mounts

Overview
Specs
Optic Installation
Low Distortion
Thermal Test Data
Design Features
Usage Tips
Feedback
Polaris Family

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POLARIS-K1F Ø1" Mount Cutaway Diagram
(Ø2" Polaris Mounts Incorporate a
Similar Optic Retention Design)

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Spring with Indexing Tab

POLARIS-K05F6 Cut-Away Diagram

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POLARIS-K05F6 Ø1/2" Mount Cutaway Diagram

Features

Machined from Stress-Relieved Stainless Steel with Matched Coefficients of Thermal Expansion (CTE)
Spring-Loaded, Indexed, Three-Point-Contact Plate Secures Optic
Hardened Stainless Steel Ball Contacts with Sapphire Seats for Durability and Smooth Movement
Matched Actuator/Body Pairs Provide Smooth Kinematic Adjustment
Extensive Testing Guarantees Less than 2 µrad Deviation after Temperature Cycling (See Thermal Test Data tab for Details)
Passivated Stainless Steel Surface Ideal for Vacuum and High-Power Laser Cavity Applications
Custom Mount Configurations are Available by Contacting Tech Support

The Polaris^® Low-Distortion Kinematic Mirror Mounts (US Patent 9,599,786) provide long-term pointing stability while minimizing optic surface distortion introduced by the mount.

Optic Retention
Each mount features a three-point-contact faceplate to mount the optic to reduce optical distortion compared to standard setscrew or retaining ring optic mount designs. An indexed retention spring between the optic and retaining ring eliminates bending moments on the optic and ensures the force on the optic remains constant over large temperature changes. See the Low Distortion tab and the Optic Installation tab for more details.

Quick Links
Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Mounts
Ø19 mm Low-Distortion Mounts
Ø25 mm Low-Distortion Mounts
Ø1" Low-Distortion Mounts
Ø1.5" Low-Distortion Mounts
Ø50 mm Low-Distortion Mounts
Ø2" Low-Distortion Mounts
Adjuster Accessories
Side Hole Adjustment Tool
Lock Nuts
Locking Collar
Torque Wrenches

Polaris optic bores are precision machined to achieve a fit that will provide optimum beam pointing stability performance over changing environmental conditions such as temperature changes, transportation shock, and vibration. Each mount is designed to be used with an optic that is within +0.0 mm / -0.15 mm of the specified diameter; using an optic outside of this range will lead to diminished performance. For inquiries about mounts for other optic sizes, 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 kinematic adjustment. As shown on the Thermal 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
The Polaris mirror mounts are equipped with #8 (M4) counterbores for post mounting. Select mounts also include Ø2 mm alignment pin holes around the mounting counterbore, 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
All Polaris mounts, retaining rings, lock nuts, and locking collars sold on this page are designed to be compatible with cleanroom and vacuum applications. See the Specs tab and the Design Features tab for more information.

Item # Suffix^a	-K05F6	-K05F1	-K05F2	-K19F4/M	-K25F4/M
Optic Size^b	Ø1/2"			Ø19 mm	Ø25 mm
Optic Thickness	0.28" (7 mm) Max^c			0.14" (3.5 mm) Min 0.24" (6.0 mm) Max^c	0.15" (4 mm) Min 0.32" (8 mm) Max^c
Transmissive Clear Aperture	Ø0.36" (Ø9.1 mm)^c			Ø0.675" (Ø17.1 mm)	Ø0.83" (Ø21.0 mm)^c
Number of Adjusters	Three	Two	Two	Two	Two
Adjuster Drive	5/64" (2 mm) Hex	Low-Profile, 5/64" (2 mm) Hex	5/64" (2 mm) Hex	5/64" (2 mm) Hex	5/64" (2 mm) Hex, Ø0.07" Side Alignment Holes
Adjuster Pitch	130 TPI Matched Actuator/Body Pairs				100 TPI Matched Actuator/Body Pairs
Measured Point-to-Point Mechanical Resolution per Adjuster	5 µrad (Typical); 2 µrad (Achievable)
Measured Adjuster Lock Mechanical Resolution per Adjuster^d	5 µrad (Typical); 2 µrad (Achievable)	N/A		5 µrad (Typical); 2 µrad (Achievable)
Resolution^e	~11 mrad/rev			~7 mrad/rev	~7.7 mrad/rev
Front Plate Translation (Max)	5 mm	N/A		N/A	N/A
Mechanical Angular Range (Nominal)	±5°			±4°
Beam Deviation After Thermal Cycling	<2 μrad^f				<1 µrad
Recommended Turns Back^g	0.5 - 0.75			0.5 - 2.0
Mounting^h	Two #8 (M4) Counterbores
Alignment Pin Holesⁱ	Two at Each Counterbore
Vacuum Compatibility^j	10^-9 Torr at 25 °C with Proper Bake Out; 10^-5 Torr at 25 °C without Bake Out Grease Vapor Pressure: 10^-13 Torr at 20 °C ,10^-5 Torr at 200 °C Epoxy Meets Low Outgassing Standards NASA ASTM E595, Telcordia GR-1221
Operating Temperature Range	-30 to 200 °C

All item numbers in the Polaris line start with POLARIS.
For best performance, use optics with a diameter tolerance of up to +0/-0.15 mm.
When mounted using the included optic retention spring and the included retaining ring.
When the Polaris^® lock nuts are used
When the front plate is parallel to the back plate.
After 12.5 °C temperature cycle, the beam returns to within 2 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.
For details on optic installation, please refer to the Optic Installation tab.
The Ø1/2" mounts come with 8-32 and M4 low-profile cap screws for mounting without obstructing the transmissive beam path. The Ø19 mm and Ø25 mm mounts come with standard 8-32 and M4 cap screws.
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".
These mounts are vacuum compatible, 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. The 8-32 and M4 cap screws included with the Polaris mounts 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 techsupport@thorlabs.com for details.

Item # Suffix^a	-K1F	-K1F1	-K1F2	-K15F4	-K50F4	-K2F	-K2F3	-K2F1	-K2F2
Optic Size^b	Ø1"			Ø1.5"	Ø50 mm	Ø2"
Optic Thickness	0.15" (4 mm) Min 0.32" (8 mm) Max^c			0.14" (3.5 mm) Min 0.47" (12.0 mm) Max^c	0.12" (3 mm) Min 0.525" (13.3 mm) Max^c	0.12" (3 mm) Min 0.525" (13.3 mm) Max^c
Transmissive Clear Aperture	Ø0.83" (Ø21.0 mm)^c			Ø1.35" (Ø34.3 mm)^c	Ø1.73" (Ø43.9 mm)^c	Ø1.73" (Ø43.9 mm)^c
Number of Adjusters	Three	Two	Two	Two	Two	Three	Three	Two	Two
Adjuster Drive	Removable Knobs	Removable Knobs	5/64" (2 mm) Hex	5/64" (2 mm) Hex, Ø0.07" Side Alignment Holes		Removable Knobs	5/64" (2 mm) Hex	Removable Knobs	5/64" (2 mm) Hex
Adjuster Pitch	100 TPI Matched Actuator/Body Pairs
Measured Point-to-Point Mechanical Resolution per Adjuster	5 µrad (Typical); 2 µrad (Achievable)
Measured Adjuster Lock Mechanical Resolution per Adjuster^d	5 µrad (Typical); 2 µrad (Achievable)
Resolution^e	~7.7 mrad/rev			~5.5 mrad/rev	~5 mrad/rev
Front Plate Translation (Max)	6 mm	N/A				3.175 mm		N/A
Mechanical Angular Range (Nominal)	±4°			±3°	±3.4°
Beam Deviation After Thermal Cycling	<1 µrad^f			<2 µrad^g
Recommended Turns Back^h	1.25			1.0 - 2.0		1.25
Mountingⁱ	Two #8 (M4) Counterbores				Four #8 (M4) Counterbores
Alignment Pin Holes^j	Two at Each Counterbore				Two at Each Mounting Face
Vacuum Compatibility^k	10^-9 Torr at 25 °C with Proper Bake Out; 10^-5 Torr at 25 °C without Bake Out Grease Vapor Pressure: 10^-13 Torr at 20 °C ,10^-5 Torr at 200 °C Epoxy Meets Low Outgassing Standards NASA ASTM E595, Telcordia GR-1221
Operating Temperature Range	-30 to 200 °C

All item numbers in the Polaris line start with POLARIS.
For best performance, use optics with a diameter tolerance of up to +0/-0.15 mm.
When mounted using the included optic retention spring and the included retaining ring.
When the Polaris^® lock nuts are used
When the front plate is parallel to the back plate.
After 12.5 °C temperature cycle, the beam returns to within 1 µrad of its original position for a Polaris mounted on a Ø1" post and a 2" beam height. Please see the Test Data tab for more details.
After 12.5 °C temperature cycle, the beam returns to within 2 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.
For details on optic installation, please refer to the Optic Installation tab.
The Ø1", Ø1.5", Ø50 mm, and Ø2" mounts come with standard 8-32 and M4 cap screws.
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".
These mounts are vacuum compatible, 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. The 8-32 and M4 cap screws included with the Polaris mounts 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 techsupport@thorlabs.com for details.

Optic Installation
To install an optic in one of our Polaris low-distortion mirror mounts, tighten the retaining ring until contact is made with the held optic; this will flatten the wave spring. Then back out the retaining ring by a 1/2 turn for our Ø1/2" mounts, between 1 -
2 turns for the Ø19 mm and Ø1.5" mounts, or 1.25 turns for our Ø25 mm, Ø1", Ø50 mm, and Ø2" mounts to achieve the optimal torque on the optic.

Installing an Optic into a Polaris Low-Distortion Mount

Ensure that there is no grease, dirt, or dust in the optic bore or on the optic itself. Remove any particulates with clean compressed air and/or clean with methanol, acetone, or ethanol. The optic, indexed retention spring, and retaining ring are installed from the back of the mount, as shown in the animation to the right. Be sure the index tab is in the key way and touching the retaining ring; reversing the retention spring orientation will result in greater distortion of the optic. Gently turn the retaining ring using a Spanner Wrench until the optic makes contact with the three fingers on the faceplate. For our Ø1/2" mounts, the SPW603 or SPW603L spanner wrenches may be used; for our Ø19 mm mounts, the SPW801 spanner wrench may be used; for our Ø1.5" mounts, the SPW608 spanner wrench may be used; for the Ø1" and Ø25 mm mounts, either the SPW602 or SPW606 may be used; for our Ø2" and Ø50 mm mounts our SPW604 may be used.

Securing Optics by Turning Back the Retaining Ring
Continue to tighten until the spring is fully compressed into the pocket of the retaining ring. At this point, the retaining ring will make slight contact with the back of the optic. Loosen the retaining ring in increments of one quarter to one half a turn until the spring pressure alone holds the optic in place (for suggested mount-specific increments, see graphs below). This will put the appropriate force on the optic, resulting in an additional distortion of a few hundredths of a wave for a mounted optic compared to the optic in its unmounted state. The ideal number of turns to loosen the retaining ring depends on the mount used and the application.

Securing Optics with a Torque Driver
Alternatively, the TD24 torque driver along with a Spanner Bit can be used to apply the appropriate torque to the retaining ring when screwing it into the mount. Please note that the POLARIS-SM19RRS40 and POLARIS-SM15RRS55 retaining rings do not have a corresponding spanner bit. The torque applied to the retaining ring translates to a force applied to the optic; this mounting process imparts a sufficient mounting force while minimizing the optic distortion. For the proper torque setting, please refer to the graphs below.

While the results when using a torque driver on the smaller mounts can be similar to that of loosening the retaining ring, it can be easy to over- or underestimate the amount of torque needed. This can result in securing the optic in the mount too loosely or too tightly, either of which will have a negative effect on the mount’s performance.

We do not recommend using a torque wrench for mounting an optic in our Ø50 mm or Ø2" Polaris mounts. The increased diameter of the optic cell makes it difficult to get an accurate reading; this can lead to mounting an optic with too much force, resulting in increased distortion of the optic face, or too little force, leaving the optic loose in the mount.

The graphs below show the effect varying amounts of torque or turns of the optic retaining ring have on the surface of a 6 mm thick mirror mounted in a Ø1/2" Polaris mount, a 6 mm thick mirror mounted in a Ø19 mm Polaris mount, a 6 mm mirror mounted in a Ø25 mm or Ø1" Polaris mount, or a 12 mm thick mirror mounted in a Ø1.5", Ø50 mm or Ø2" Polaris mount. The shaded regions below illustrate the acceptable range of turns back. Minimal turns back should be used for setups that will be exposed to vibrations, while stationary setups may be able to accommodate more turns back. All flatness measurements are taken with a ZYGO interferometer, which uses a 633 nm beam. Please see the Low Distortion tab for more information on optic face distortion as a result of torque.

Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Mounts

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The dashed line indicates 0.10λ for reference. The shaded region represents the recommended torque range. 0.5 turns back from optic contact is recommended for secure mounting with minimal additional distortion caused by the mount. The black dots represent the torque and flatness yielded by using a standard spanner wrench and then loosening the retaining ring the number of turns indicated by the number below the dot. Data for torque values above the shaded region are given for reference and will yield distortion values significantly higher than 0.1 waves.

Ø19 mm Low-Distortion Mounts

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The data above shows the optic distortion for a 6 mm thick mirror mounted in the
POLARIS-K19F4/M mount. The dashed line indicates 0.10λ for reference. A range of one to two turns back from optic contact is suggested for secure mounting with minimal additional distortion caused by the mount. However, this can vary based on the application

Ø25 mm Low-Distortion Mounts

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The data above shows the optic distortion for a 6 mm thick mirror mounted in the
POLARIS-K25F4/M mount. The dashed line indicates 0.10λ for reference. A range of a half to two turns back from optic contact is suggested for secure mounting with minimal additional distortion caused by the mount. However, this can vary based on the application.

Ø1.5" Low-Distortion Mounts

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The data above shows the optic distortion for a 12 mm thick mirror mounted in the
POLARIS-K15F4 mount. The dashed line indicates 0.10λ for reference. A range of one to two turns back from optic contact is suggested for secure mounting with minimal additional distortion caused by the mount. However, this can vary based on the application.

Ø50 mm Low-Distortion Mounts

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xThe data above shows the optic distortion for a 12 mm thick mirror mounted in the
POLARIS-K50F4/M mount. The dashed line indicates 0.10λ for reference. A range of one to two turns back from optic contact is suggested for secure mounting with minimal additional distortion caused by the mount. However, this can vary based on the application.

Ø1" Low-Distortion Mounts

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The data above shows the optic distortion for a 6 mm thick mirror mounted in a
Polaris^® Ø1" Low-Distortion Mount. The dashed line indicates 0.10λ for reference. 1.25 turns back from optic contact is recommended for secure mounting with minimal additional distortion caused by the mount.

Ø2" Low-Distortion Mounts

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The data above shows the optic distortion for a 6 mm thick mirror mounted in a Polaris^® Ø2" Low-Distortion Mount. The dashed line indicates 0.10λ for reference. 1.25 turns back from optic contact is recommended for secure mounting with minimal additional distortion caused by the mount. The error bars signify the standard deviation of the test results at every 0.25 turn interval. The spring will start to disengage from the optic at 3.25 turns back

Mounting stresses are responsible for the strain on an optic that results in optic distortion. Minimizing distortion effects is crucial; any distortion to the optic is transmitted to the light that is reflected from it.

Placing the 3-point mounting forces perpendicular to the face of the optic and indexing them directly opposite each other minimizes bending moments on the optic, thus reducing optic distortion. Typical 360° face mounts and side-located setscrew mounts create bending moments that cause optic distortion as seen in the drawings below. Spring loading the optic allows one to gradually tune the retention force, dampening stresses caused by temperature changes, and it provides a soft means of compensating for variances in manufacturing that can further produce stress on the optic. The finite element analysis results shown below show the displacement, stress, and strain applied to the optic for 20 oz-in of torque applied to the retaining ring of our POLARIS-K05F6 and POLARIS-K1F mounts and 10 oz-in of torque applied to the setscrew of the equivalent standard setscrew mount. The POLARIS-K05F1 and POLARIS-K05F2 use the same front plate as the POLARIS-K05F6 and will show similar performance. The POLARIS-K19F4/M, POLARIS-K25F4/M, POLARIS-K1F1, POLARIS-K1F2, POLARIS-K15F4, POLARIS-K50F4/M, and Ø2" low-distortion Polaris mounts also have a similar design and therefore will show similar performance to the POLARIS-K1F.

Simulation Results for POLARIS-K05F6 Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Mount*

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Comparison of Optic Stress when Mounted in one of two POLARIS-K05 Mounts

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* The POLARIS-K05F1 and POLARIS-K05F2 low-distortion Polaris mounts will show similar performance to the POLARIS-K05F6.

Simulation Results for POLARIS-K1F Ø1" Low-Distortion Mount*

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Comparison of Optic Stress when Mounted in one of two POLARIS-K1F6 Mounts

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* The POLARIS-K19F4/M, POLARIS-K25F4/M, POLARIS-K1F1, POLARIS-K1F2, POLARIS-K15F4, POLARIS-K50F4/M, and Ø2" low-distortion Polaris mounts will show similar performance to the POLARIS-K1F.

Optical Distortion Testing Using a ZYGO Phase-Shifting Interferometer

A ZYGO Phase-Shifting Interferometer was used to perform wavefront distortion measurements on all Polaris Low-Distortion Mirror Mounts. The results of these tests can be found below.

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Ø1/2" Mounts

Procedure
A BB05-E02 Ø1/2" Broadband Dielectric Mirror was installed into a POLARIS-K05F6 Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount using the procedure detailed in the Optic Installation tab; that is, the retaining ring was tightened until the spring was fully compressed, and then the retaining ring was turned back a half turn. The mount was then secured to a Ø1" stainless steel post using an 8-32 cap screw tightened to a torque of 16 in-lb. The Zygo interferometer aperture outer diameter was set to 80% for these measurements.

Results
As seen in the image to the right, the wavefront distortion was found to remain at or below 0.1λ.

POLARIS-K19F4/M Wavefront Distortion Test Results
# of Turns Back the Retaining Ring was Loosened	Wavefront Distortion (Peak to Valley)^a
1/4 Turn	0.144λ
1/2 Turn	0.142λ
3/4 Turn	0.102λ
1 Turn	0.086λ
1.25 Turns	0.069λ
1.5 Turns	0.058λ
1.75 Turns	0.041λ
2 Turns	0.035λ

The Zygo interferometer aperture outer diameter was set to 85% for these measurements.

Ø19 mm Mount

Procedure
A custom Ø19 mm Broadband Dielectric Mirror was installed into a POLARIS-K19F4/M Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount using the procedure detailed in the Optic Installation tab; that is, the retaining ring was tightened until the spring was fully compressed, and then the retaining ring was loosened incrementally. The mount was then secured to a Ø1" stainless steel post using an 8-32 cap screw tightened to a torque of 16 in-lb. Results of each measurement are provided in the table to the right.

Results
As seen in the table to the right, the wavefront distortion was found to remain below 0.15λ.

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/2 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 3/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.25 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.5 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.75 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 2 Turns

POLARIS-K25F4/M Wavefront Distortion Test Results
# of Turns Back the Retaining Ring was Loosened	Wavefront Distortion (Peak to Valley)^a
1/4 Turn	0.060λ
1/2 Turn	0.081λ
3/4 Turn	0.069λ
1 Turn	0.068λ
1.25 Turns	0.060λ
1.5 Turns	0.056λ
1.75 Turns	0.056λ
2 Turns	0.053λ

The Zygo interferometer aperture outer diameter was set to 85% for these measurements.

Ø25 mm Mounts

Procedure
A custom Ø25 mm Broadband Dielectric Mirror was installed into a POLARIS-K25F4/M Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount using the procedure detailed in the Optic Installation tab; that is, the retaining ring was tightened until the spring was fully compressed, and then the retaining ring was loosened incrementally. The mount was then secured to a Ø1" stainless steel post using an 8-32 cap screw tightened to a torque of 16 in-lb. Results of each measurement are provided in the table to the right.

Results
As seen in the table to the right, the wavefront distortion was found to remain below 0.1λ.

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/2 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 3/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.25 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.5 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.75 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 2 Turns

POLARIS-K1F Wavefront Distortion Test Results
# of Turns Back the Retaining Ring was Loosened	Wavefront Distortion (Peak to Valley)^a
1/4 Turn	0.097λ
1/2 Turn	0.09λ
3/4 Turn	0.083λ
1 Turn	0.081λ
1.25 Turns	0.071λ
1.5 Turns	0.062λ
1.75 Turns	0.053λ
2 Turns	0.033λ

The Zygo interferometer aperture outer diameter was set to 90% for these measurements.

Ø1" Mounts

Procedure
A BB1-E02 Ø1" Broadband Dielectric Mirror was installed into a POLARIS-K1F Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount using the procedure detailed in the Optic Installation tab; that is, the retaining ring was tightened until the spring was fully compressed, and then the retaining ring was loosened incrementally. The mount was then secured to a Ø1" stainless steel post using an 8-32 cap screw tightened to a torque of 16 in-lb. Results of each measurement are provided in the table to the right.

Results
As seen in the image to the right, the wavefront distortion was found to remain at or below 0.1λ.

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/2 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 3/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.25 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.5 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.75 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 2 Turns

POLARIS-K15F4 Wavefront Distortion Test Results
# of Turns Back the Retaining Ring was Loosened	Wavefront Distortion (Peak to Valley)^a
1/4 Turn	0.128λ
1/2 Turn	0.118λ
3/4 Turn	0.102λ
1 Turn	0.103λ
1.25 Turns	0.082λ
1.5 Turns	0.093λ
1.75 Turns	0.094λ
2 Turns	0.088λ

The Zygo interferometer aperture outer diameter was set to 90% for these measurements.

Ø1.5" Mounts

Procedure
A custom Ø1.5" Broadband Dielectric Mirror was installed into a POLARIS-K15F4 Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount using the procedure detailed in the Optic Installation tab; that is, the retaining ring was tightened until the spring was fully compressed, and then the retaining ring was loosened incrementally. The mount was then secured to a Ø1" stainless steel post using an 8-32 cap screw tightened to a torque of 16 in-lb. Results of each measurement are provided in the table to the right.

Results
As seen in the image to the right, the wavefront distortion was found to remain at or below 0.1λ.

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/2 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 3/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.25 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.5 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.75 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 2 Turns

POLARIS-K50F4/M Wavefront Distortion Test Results
# of Turns Back the Retaining Ring was Loosened	Wavefront Distortion (Peak to Valley)^a
1/4 Turn	0.051λ
1/2 Turn	0.044λ
3/4 Turn	0.049λ
1 Turn	0.049λ
1.25 Turns	0.046λ
1.5 Turns	0.044λ
1.75 Turns	0.053λ
2 Turns	0.049λ

The Zygo interferometer aperture outer diameter was set to 85% for these measurements.

Ø50 mm Mounts

Procedure
A custom Ø50 mm Broadband Dielectric Mirror was installed into a POLARIS-K50F4/M Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount using the procedure detailed in the Optic Installation tab; that is, the retaining ring was tightened until the spring was fully compressed, and then the retaining ring was loosened incrementally. The mount was then secured to a Ø1" stainless steel post using an 8-32 cap screw tightened to a torque of 16 in-lb. Results of each measurement are provided in the table to the right.

Results
As seen in the table to the right, the wavefront distortion was found to remain below 0.1λ.

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/2 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 3/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.25 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.5 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.75 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 2 Turns

POLARIS-K2F Wavefront Distortion Test Results
# of Turns Back the Retaining Ring was Loosened	Wavefront Distortion (Peak to Valley)^a
1/4 Turn	0.123λ to 0.133λ
1/2 Turn	0.122λ to 0.124λ
3/4 Turn	0.111λ to 0.116λ
1 Turn	0.100λ to 0.106λ
1.25 Turns	0.094λ to 0.098λ
1.5 Turns	0.095λ to 0.099λ
1.75 Turns	0.086λ to 0.094λ
2 Turns	0.082λ to 0.089λ

The Zygo interferometer aperture outer diameter was set to 90% for these measurements.

Ø2" Mounts

Procedure
A BB2-E02 Ø2" Broadband Dielectric Mirror was installed into a POLARIS-K2F Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount using the procedure detailed in the Optic Installation tab; that is, the retaining ring was tightened until the spring was fully compressed, and then the retaining ring was loosened incrementally. The mount was then secured to a Ø1" stainless steel post using an 8-32 cap screw tightened to a torque of 16 in-lb. Results of each measurement are provided in the table to the right.

Results
As seen in the table to the right, the wavefront distortion was found to remain at or below 0.133λ.

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 1/2 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back a 3/4 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1 Turn

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.25 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.5 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 1.75 Turns

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Retaining Ring Turned Back 2 Turns

Positional Repeatability After Thermal Shock

This testing was done to determine how reliably the mount returns the mirror, without hysteresis, to its initial position so that the alignment of the optical system is unaffected by the temperature shock. During the testing phase, the Polaris kinematic mirror mount was attached to a Ø1" stainless steel post secured to a stainless steel optical breadboard in a temperature-controlled environment. Each mount was secured to the post by an 8-32 cap screw with 16 in-lb of torque. The mirror was mounted (not glued) in the mirror mount, and 8 oz-in of torque was applied to the retaining ring for the Ø1/2" and Ø1" mounts. The retaining ring in the Ø19 mm and Ø1.5" mounts was backed out 1.5 turns from optic contact. The retaining ring in the Ø2" mounts was backed out 1.25 turns from optic contact; please see the Optic Installation tab for why we recommend against using a torque wrench with our Ø2" mounts. The beam from an independently temperature-stabilized diode laser was reflected off the mirror’s surface onto a position sensing detector.

Procedure:
Each mirror mount tested was heated, and the elevated temperature was maintained in order to soak the mount at a constant temperature. 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 low-distortion mounts were returned to the initial temperature, the angular position (both pitch and yaw) of the mirrors returned to within 2 µrad of the initial position. The performance of the Polaris mounts was tested further by subjecting each 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 POLARIS-K1F mount 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.

Ø1/2" Mounts

Ø19 mm Mount

Ø1" Mount

Ø1.5" Mount

Ø2" Mounts

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Design Features of the Polaris Low Distortion 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 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 mirror to its initial position when the initial temperature is restored. All the critical components of the Polaris mirror 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 mirror mount is returned to the initial temperature.

The method by which the mirror is secured in the mount is another important design factor; these Polaris mounts offer excellent performance without the use of adhesives. Instead, they have a three-point-contact faceplate, an indexed retention spring, and a stainless steel retaining ring that hold the optic in place. This design minimizes distortion on the optic surface while maintaining beam pointing stability.

Crosstalk
Crosstalk is minimized by carefully controlling the dimensional tolerances of the front and back plates of the mount so that the pitch and yaw actuators are orthogonal. In addition, sapphire seats are used at all three contact points. Standard metal-to-metal actuator contact points will wear down over time. The polished sapphire seats of the Polaris mounts, 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 mirror 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 the front plate of the mount 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.

Double Vacuum Bagging for Polaris Mounts

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Polaris Mounts are Shipped Inside Two Vacuum Bag Layers

Cleanroom and Vacuum Compatibility
All Polaris mounts, retaining rings, and lock nuts sold on this page are designed to be compatible with cleanroom and vacuum applications. They are chemically cleaned using the Carpenter AAA passivation method to remove sulfur, iron, and contaminants from the surface. After passivation, they are assembled in a clean environment and then double vacuum bagged, as shown in the image to the right, to eliminate contamination when transported into a cleanroom.

The sapphire contacts are bonded into place using a NASA-approved low outgassing procedure. In addition, DuPont LVP High-Vacuum (Krytox) Grease, an ultra-high-vacuum-compatible, low outgassing PTFE grease, is applied to the adjusters. These features provide high-vacuum compatibility and low outgassing performance. Please note that the 8-32 and M4 cap screws included with the Polaris mounts are not rated for pressures below 10^-5 Torr.

The 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.

POLARIS-K05FC Mounted on a Stainless Steel Post

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POLARIS-K05F6 mounted on a Ø1", stainless steel
pedestal post.

Polaris kinematic mirror mounts are specifically designed to provide excellent performance under thermal changes and vibrations. Below are some usage tips to ensure that the mount provides optimal performance.

Match Materials
Due to its relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion, stainless steel was chosen as the material from which to fabricate the front back plates of the Polaris mounts. When mounting, we recommend using components fabricated from the same material, such as our Ø1" stainless steel posts of posts.

Mounting Options
If post mounting a Polaris mount, we recommend using a stainless steel post such as our Ø1" stainless steel posts or Ø1" post extensions with our POLARIS-CA1 Clamping Arm. By choosing components fabricated from the same material as the mount itself, all expansions and contractions will occur at the same rate. In addition, it is best to use the shortest post possible. Alternatively, mount the Polaris directly onto a flat surface such as a breadboard using a 1/4"-20 to 8-32 thread adapter (Item # AE8E25E) or M6 to M4 thread adapter (Item # AE4M6M), which results in even better performance. Ensure that the mounting surface is highly flat, polished, and free of debris or scratches.

To install the POLARIS-LN1 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.

Mount Alignment
During alignment, minimized deflection will be achieved if the mount's front plate is kept parallel to the base plate. This ensures even thermal expansion of all the adjustment screws, causing the mounted mirror to translate in the Z direction as opposed to rotating during temperature changes.

Front Plate’s Position
Although the mount is designed to allow adjustments of up to 6° for the Ø1.5" mounts, 6.8° for the Ø2" mounts, 8° for the Ø19 mm and Ø1" mounts, and 10° for the Ø1/2" mounts, to achieve the best performance, it is recommended that the front plate be kept as parallel as possible to the back plate. This ensures the highest stability of the adjustments.

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 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 it can introduce contamination to the threading, which can consequently 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. Finally, do not over tighten the retaining ring that secures the indexed spring that holds the optic in place; only slight force is required to secure the optic in place. For more information, please see the Low Distortion tab. Do not adjust or remove the spring-loaded ball contact in the faceplate of the Ø19 mm, Ø1", Ø1.5", or Ø2" Polaris mounts; the correct position is set at the factory.

POLARIS-K05F6 Used at Low-Incident Angles

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Adjuster Lock Nuts
The 3-adjuster POLARIS-K05F6 and 2-adjuster POLARIS-K05F2 come with lock nuts pre-installed. For Polaris mounts that do not include lock nuts, the POLARIS-LN05 and POLARIS-LN1 lock nuts are available separately below. The beam can be held on target with the adjuster thumbscrew or hex key while lightly tightening the lock nut by hand or with a thin-head wrench or cone wrench. 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). 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. 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.

Low Incident Angles
The recessed edge of our Polaris Low-Distortion Mounts make them ideal for applications requiring low angles of incidence. The illustration to the right shows two Polaris Low-Distortion Mounts with Ø1/2" mirrors (green) used at a near-normal incident angle.

Posted Comments:

Joel Blum (posted 2019-06-12 21:07:11.733)

What adhesives are used in the Polaris-K2F3? I would like to put this into a vacuum chamber and need to know what might outgas. I need manufacturer and product name to reference. Thanks.

YLohia (posted 2019-06-13 09:45:26.0)

Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The POLARIS-K2F3 uses DuPont LVP High-Vacuum (Krytox) Grease and EPO-TEK 353ND A/B epoxy.

hyosubkim (posted 2019-02-20 19:10:48.95)

Am I able to replace the 'POLARIS-K2F2' tuning knobs to 'POLARIS-P20'?

YLohia (posted 2019-02-21 12:18:17.0)

Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The POLARIS-P20 actuator has 3/8"-100 threads and is not compatible with the POLARIS-K2F2 mount, which incorporates 1/4"-100 adjuster screws.

user (posted 2017-09-21 13:24:48.79)

It is not easy to me to put in place the mirror. The mirror has to be "launched" in position from the back side towards the 3-point face mount, but at any minimal mirror tilt, the mirror itself gets stuck. Any tip to do this operation safely and preventing mirror damage ? (I would not like to push the mirror) Thanks

tfrisch (posted 2017-09-26 05:26:46.0)

Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. We do have an Optic Installation guide, but if you are having trouble with the optic tilting and catching on the threads, the solution will depend on the optic. For a mirror with a ground back surface, you may be able to hold it by the back and guide it in. For an optic where the back surface is an optical surface, you may want to use an optic spacer like SM05S10M to guide it into the seat.

user (posted 2017-09-16 17:00:04.72)

Dear Thorlabs,. I have been you customer since long time... Seriously I would like to ask you a question that "How many Polaris mirror mount needed by users?" I fly through your Polaris selection...there are crazy too many unnecessary polaris mirror mounts in your catalogue.

tfrisch (posted 2017-09-26 03:26:02.0)

Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The Polaris line is designed for applications where stability is key. Many laser science, inspection and testing, or vacuum applications require thermal, vibration, or wavefront stability not satisfied by standard optomechanical mounts. I would be glad to help you select an item that is suitable for your application if you reach email me at TechSupport@Thorlabs.com.

klaus.ertel (posted 2015-03-03 18:02:27.587)

Hello, Can the low distortion mounts be used with wedged optics (wedge angle approx. 0.5 deg or 30 arc min)? Regards, Klaus

jlow (posted 2015-05-19 12:42:29.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: The low distortion mount can be used with wedged optic (approximately 0.5deg wedge angle).

Kintesh P. PhD. (posted 2013-08-03 11:56:42.03)

I've seen theses at the trade show for some time now so I'm glad they are finally available. So I have one question before I buy some - I have inquired about locks on the old Polaris mount and saw this answer from the other FeedBack page -- "A response from Adam at Thorlabs to h2004k: Currently, the Polaris mounts do not have locking mechanisms. The reason there is no locking mechanism is because during the lock engagement the alignment would shift significantly. Please note that the POALRIS mount can be comfortably adjusted to within 5 urad, and it was found to hold its alignment (within 5urad band) throughout multiple days of vigorous thermal cycling. Theoretically, the mount should be quite stable over the time frame of a few months, but do not have the test data to confirm this." I noticed that this mount does have locks now so it seems there is some fundamental confusion on what is the truth. Please clarify...

jlow (posted 2013-08-07 09:49:00.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: For a lot of common lab setups, the lock nut is not a necessity. For applications such as shipping a system or systems with on board vibration, the lock nuts and face mounting of the optic are needed to prevent the optic from moving. The lock nuts in the POLARIS mounts allow the user to hold the adjuster still with one hand and lock the adjuster with the other hand. This approach allows the beam to be held on target during the locking procedure and it allows the user to lock down the adjuster on a target with better than 5µrad precision. For applications requiring optics to be face mounted, the lock nuts are generally requested which is one reason we include them. For the regular POLARIS-K1 and POLARIS-K05, we could offer the lock nuts as a special.

Polaris Mount Optic Retention Methods (Click Image to Enlarge)
Side Lock	SM Threaded	Low Distortion	Glue In

Polaris Mount Adjuster Types (Click Image for Details)
Side Hole	Hex	Adjuster Knobs	Adjuster Lock Nuts	Piezo Adjusters

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.

Accessories for Polaris Mounts
Ø1" Posts for Polaris Mirror Mounts
Polaris Clamping Arm
Polaris 45º Adapter

Polaris Mounts for Ø1/2" Optics

Polaris Mounts for Ø19 mm (3/4") Optics

Polaris Mounts for Ø25 mm Optics

Polaris Mounts for Ø1" Optics

Polaris Mounts for Ø1.5" Optics

Polaris Mounts for Ø50 mm Optics

Polaris Mounts for Ø2" Optics

Polaris Mounts for Ø3" Optics

Polaris Kinematic Platform Mount

Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

Ø1/2in Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

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Hex-Driven Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø1/2" Optics^a
130 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
Adjusters Feature Lock Nuts
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction
Less than 2 µrad Deviation after Temperature Cycling (See Test Data Tab)

This Ø1/2" Polaris Low-Distortion Mirror Mount is designed to minimize optic distortion and provide long-term stability. This mount is equipped with a three-point-contact faceplate to mount the optic. The indexed optic retention spring makes contact with the optic at three locations, while the retaining ring has a calibrated adjustment stop to assist in providing the correct mounting torque. See the Optic Installation and Low Distortion tabs above for details.

The POLARIS-K05F6 kinematic mirror mount is sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K05WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM05RRS40). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

The 5/64" hex actuators may be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrew (available separately below) or any other 5/64" hex wrench. The mount includes three adjuster lock nuts. The beam can be held on target with a hex key while lightly 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).

Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) counterbored holes at 90°. Due to the shallow design of the counterbore, low-profile 8-32 and M4 cap screws are included for securing the mount to a post without obstructing the transmissive beam path. The 8-32 cap screw accepts a 5/64" 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; for details, see the PDF drawing by clicking on the Docs icon ( info icon ) below.

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1/2" optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.005" and are not intended for use with the Ø12.5 mm metric mirror size.

Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Kinematic Mounts, 2 Adjusters

Ø1/2in Low-Distortion Kinematic Mounts, 2 Adjusters

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POLARIS-K05F1 2-Low-Profile-Adjuster, Low-Distortion Mount

2-Adjuster Low-Distortion Mounts Designed for Ø1/2" Optics^a
Hex-Driven Design
130 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
Low-Profile or Standard-Profile Adjusters
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction
Less Than 2 µrad Deviation after Temperature Cycling (See Test Data Tab)

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. They use an integrated, stainless-steel, matched adjuster/body design for greater durability than standard mirror mounts. Our Polaris 2-adjuster mounts are sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K05WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM05RRS40). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

For fitting into tight spaces, the POLARIS-K05F1 mount is equipped with low-profile hex actuators that are 0.15" (3.8 mm) shorter than the adjusters on the POLARIS-K05F2; due to the shorter actuators, the POLARIS-K05F1 does not include lock nuts.

The POLARIS-K05F2 mount has standard-profile 5/64" 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).

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1/2" optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.005" and are not intended for use with the Ø12.5 mm metric mirror size.

Ø19 mm Low-Distortion Kinematic Mounts, 2 Adjusters

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Two dowel pin holes on either side of the #8 counterbore are visible on the side of the mount. Also visible are the through holes on the actuator.

2-Adjuster Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø19 mm Optics^a
Hex-Driven Design
130 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction

This 2-adjuster Ø19 mm Polaris Low-Distortion Mirror Mount is designed to minimize optic distortion and provide long-term stability. This mount is equipped with a three-point-contact faceplate to mount the optic. The indexed optic retention spring makes contact with the optic at three locations, while the retaining ring has a calibrated adjustment stop to assist in providing the correct mounting torque. See the Optic Installation and Low Distortion tabs above for details. One of the three contact points of the faceplate incorporates a spring-loaded ball contact that aids in further reducing optic distortion; this is pictured in yellow in the cutaway diagram at the top of the Overview tab. Please note that this ball contact is factory set and it should not be adjusted or removed.

The POLARIS-K19F4/M kinematic mirror mount is sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K19WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM19RRS40). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

The 2-adjuster design of this mount improves stability by limiting the available degrees of freedom for movement. The 130 TPI adjusters feature two Ø0.07" through holes that allow for actuation from the side using our precision-fit SA1 Side Hole Adjustment Tool or a 1/16" (1.5 mm) balldriver or hex key. For details, see the PDF drawing by clicking on the Docs icon ( info icon ) below. Each adjuster also has a 2.0 mm (5/64") hex and may be adjusted with the hex on the back end of the SA1 tool's handle, our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrews (sold below), or any other 2.0 mm (5/64") hex wrench. The adjusters on this mount can be locked using the POLARIS-LN05 lock nut (sold separately below). For applications that require frequent tuning of the adjusters, the lock nut 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).

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø19 mm optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.15 mm. To order custom Ø19 mm optics, please contact Tech Support.

Ø25 mm Polaris Low Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

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Two dowel pin holes on either side of the #8 counterbore are visible on the side of the mount. Also visible are the through holes on the actuator.

2-Adjuster Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø25 mm Optics^a
Hex-Driven Design
100 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction

This 2-adjuster Ø25 mm Polaris Low-Distortion Mirror Mount is designed to minimize optic distortion and provide long-term stability. This mount is equipped with a three-point-contact faceplate to mount the optic. The indexed optic retention spring makes contact with the optic at three locations, while the retaining ring has a calibrated adjustment stop to assist in providing the correct mounting torque. See the Optic Installation and Low Distortion tabs above for details. One of the three contact points of the faceplate incorporates a spring-loaded ball contact that aids in further reducing optic distortion; this is pictured in yellow in the cutaway diagram in the top of the Overview tab. Please note that this ball contact is factory set and it should not be adjusted or removed.

The POLARIS-K25F4/M kinematic mirror mount is sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K1WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM1RRS40). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

The 2-adjuster design of this mount improves stability by limiting the available degrees of freedom for movement. The 100 TPI adjusters feature three Ø0.07" through holes that allow for actuation from the side using our precision-fit SA1 Side Hole Adjustment Tool or a 1/16" (1.5 mm) balldriver or hex key. For details, see the PDF drawing by clicking on the Docs icon ( info icon ) below. Each adjuster also has a 2.0 mm (5/64") hex and may be adjusted with the hex on the back end of the SA1 tool's handle, our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrews (sold below), or any other 2.0 mm (5/64") hex wrench.

The adjusters on this mount can be locked using the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (sold separately below). The beam can be held on target with the adjuster thumbscrew or hex key while lightly tightening the lock nut or locking collar by hand. Alternatively, a 13 mm hex open-ended wrench may be used to tighghten the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut, and a POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench may be used to tighten the POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (see below for details). 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).

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø25 mm optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.15 mm. To order custom Ø25 mm optics, please contact Tech Support.

Ø1" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

Ø1in Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

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Knob-Driven Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø1" Optics^a
100 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
Adjusters Feature Removable Knobs
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction
Less Than 1 µrad Deviation after Temperature Cycling (See the Test Data Tab)

This Ø1" Polaris Low-Distortion Mirror Mount is designed to minimize optic distortion and provide long-term stability. This mount features a three-point-contact faceplate to mount the optic. The indexed optic retention spring makes contact with the optic at three locations, while the retaining ring has a calibrated adjustment stop to assist in providing the correct mounting torque. See the Optic Installation and Low Distortion tabs above for details. One of the three contact points of the faceplate incorporates a spring-loaded ball contact that also provides an adjustable mounting surface to further limit optic distortion; this is pictured in yellow in the cutaway diagram in the top of the Overview tab. Please note that this ball contact is factory set and it should not be adjusted or removed.

The POLARIS-K1F kinematic mirror mount is sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K1WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM1RRS40). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

The knobs on the 100 TPI adjusters are removable; with the knobs removed, the position can be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 hex key thumbscrew (sold below), or any other 5/64" hex wrench. The adjusters can be locked using POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar, which are available separately below. The beam can be held on target with the adjuster thumbscrew or hex key while lightly tightening the lock nut or locking collar by hand. Alternatively, a 13 mm hex open-ended wrench may be used for the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut, and a POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench may be used to tighten the POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (see below for details). 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).

Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) counterbored holes at 90°. 8-32 and M4 cap screws are included. For setting a precise location and mounting angle in custom mounting configurations, Ø2 mm alignment pin holes are located on both sides of each counterbore. Standard DIN 7-m6 ground dowel pins are recommended; for details, see the PDF drawing by clicking on the Docs icon ( info icon ) below.

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1" optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.005".

Ø1" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mounts, 2 Adjusters

Ø1in Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mounts, 2 Adjusters

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POLARIS-K1F2 2-Adjuster, Hex-Driven, Low-Distortion Mount

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POLARIS-K1F1 with POLARIS-LN1 lock nut installed. Two dowel pin holes on either side of the #8 counterbore are visible on the side of the mount.

2-Adjuster Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø1" Optics^a
Knob- or Hex-Driven Design
100 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction
Less Than 2 µrad Deviation after Temperature Cycling (See Test Data Tab)
Knobs are Removable

These 2-adjuster Ø1" 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. They use an integrated matched adjuster/body design for greater durability. Both knob- and hex-driven versions of the 2-adjuster mount are available. These mounts have undergone extensive testing to ensure high-quality performance.

Each of these Polaris 2-adjuster kinematic mirror mounts is sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K1WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM1RRS40). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

The knobs on the POLARIS-K1F1 100 TPI adjusters are removable; with the knobs removed, the position can be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 hex key thumbscrew (sold below), or any other 5/64" hex wrench. The adjusters can be locked using POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar, which are available below. The beam can be held on target with the adjuster thumbscrew or hex key while lightly tightening the lock nut or locking collar by hand. Alternatively, a 13 mm hex open-ended wrench may be used for the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut, and a POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench may be used to tighten the POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (see below for details). 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).

Post mounting is provided by two #8 (M4) counterbored holes at 90°. 8-32 and M4 cap screws are included. 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; for details, see the PDF drawing by clicking on the Docs icon ( info icon ) below.

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1" optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.005".

Ø1.5" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

Ø1.5in Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

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Two dowel pin holes on either side of the #8 counterbore are visible on the side of the mount. Also visible are the through holes on the actuator.

2-Adjuster Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø1.5" Optics^a
Hex-Driven Adjusters with Side Holes
100 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction

This 2-adjuster Ø1.5" Polaris Low-Distortion Mirror Mount is designed to minimize optic distortion and provide long-term stability. This mount is equipped with a three-point-contact faceplate to mount the optic. The indexed optic retention spring makes contact with the optic at three locations, while the retaining ring has a calibrated adjustment stop to assist in providing the correct mounting torque. See the Optic Installation and Low Distortion tabs above for details. One of the three contact points of the faceplate incorporates a spring-loaded ball contact that aids in further reducing optic distortion; this is pictured in yellow in the cutaway diagram at the top of the Overview tab. Please note that this ball contact is factory set and it should not be adjusted or removed.

The POLARIS-K15F4 kinematic mirror mount is sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K15WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM15RRS55). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

The 2-adjuster design of this mount improves stability by limiting the available degrees of freedom for movement. The 100 TPI adjusters feature two Ø0.07" through holes that allow for actuation from the side using our precision-fit SA1 Side Hole Adjustment Tool or a 1/16" (1.5 mm) balldriver or hex key. For details, see the PDF drawing by clicking on the Docs icon ( info icon ) below. Each adjuster also has a 2.0 mm (5/64") hex and may be adjusted with the hex at the back end of the SA1 tool's handle, our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrews (sold below), or any other 2.0 mm (5/64") hex wrench. Alternatively, POLARIS-N5 removable, low-profile adjustment knobs (sold separately) can be threaded onto the adjusters; note that the removable knobs will block the adjuster side holes but not the hex.

The adjusters can be locked using POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar, available below. The beam can be held on target with an adjuster thumbscrew or hex key while lightly tightening the lock nut or locking collar by hand. Alternatively, a 13 mm hex open-ended wrench may be used for the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut, and a POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench may be used to tighten the POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (see below for details). 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).

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø1.5" optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.005". To order custom Ø1.5" optics, please contact Tech Support.

Ø50 mm Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

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Two dowel pin holes on either side of the #8 counterbore are visible on the side of the mount. Also visible are the through holes on the actuator.

2-Adjuster Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø50 mm Optics^a
Hex-Driven Design
100 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction

This 2-adjuster Ø50 mm Polaris Low-Distortion Mirror Mount is designed to minimize optic distortion and provide long-term stability. This mount is equipped with a three-point-contact faceplate to mount the optic. The indexed optic retention spring makes contact with the optic at three locations, while the retaining ring has a calibrated adjustment stop to assist in providing the correct mounting torque. See the Optic Installation and Low Distortion tabs above for details. One of the three contact points of the faceplate incorporates a spring-loaded ball contact that aids in further reducing optic distortion; this is pictured in yellow in the cutaway diagram in the top of the Overview tab. Please note that this ball contact is factory set and it should not be adjusted or removed.

The POLARIS-K50F4/M kinematic mirror mount is sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K2WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM2RRS70). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

The 2-adjuster design of this mount improves stability by limiting the available degrees of freedom for movement. The 100 TPI adjusters feature three Ø0.07" through holes that allow for actuation from the side using our precision-fit SA1 Side Hole Adjustment Tool or a 1/16" (1.5 mm) balldriver or hex key. For details, see the PDF drawing by clicking on the Docs icon ( info icon ) below. Each adjuster also has a 2.0 mm (5/64") hex and may be adjusted with the hex on the end of the SA1, our HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrews (sold below), or any other 2.0 mm (5/64") hex wrench. The adjusters can be locked using POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar, which are available below. The beam can be held on target with the adjuster thumbscrew or hex key while lightly tightening the lock nut or locking collar by hand. Alternatively, a 13 mm hex open-ended wrench may be used for the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut, and a POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench may be used to tighten the POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar. 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).

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø50 mm optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.15 mm. To order custom Ø50 mm optics, please contact Tech Support.

Ø2" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

Ø2in Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

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POLARIS-K2F3 3-Adjuster, Low-Distortion Mount

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POLARIS-K2F with POLARIS-LN1 lock nut installed. Two dowel pin holes and #8 counterbores are visible on the side of the mount.

3-Adjuster Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø2" Optics^a
Removable Knob- or Hex-Driven Design
100 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction
Less Than 2 µrad Deviation after Temperature Cycling (See the Test Data Tab)
Adjusters can be Locked Using POLARIS-LN1 Lock Nuts

This Ø2" Polaris Low-Distortion Mirror Mount is designed to minimize optic distortion and provide long-term stability. This mount features a three-point-contact faceplate to mount the optic. The indexed optic retention spring makes contact with the optic at three locations, while the retaining ring has a calibrated adjustment stop to assist in providing the correct mounting torque. See the Optic Installation and Low Distortion tabs above for details. One of the three contact points of the faceplate incorporates a spring-loaded ball contact that also provides an adjustable mounting surface to further limit optic distortion; this is pictured in yellow in the cutaway diagram in the top of the Overview tab. Please note that this ball contact is factory set and it should not be adjusted or removed.

Each kinematic mirror mount is sold with one indexed optic retention spring (POLARIS-K2WS) and one retaining ring (POLARIS-SM2RRS70). These items are also available below for purchase separately should replacements be required.

The knobs on the POLARIS-K2F 100 TPI adjusters are removable; with the knobs removed, the position can be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 hex key thumbscrew (available separately below) or any other 5/64" hex wrench. The adjusters can be locked using POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar, which are available below. The beam can be held on target with the adjuster thumbscrew or hex key while lightly tightening the lock nut or locking collar by hand. Alternatively, a 13 mm hex open-ended wrench may be used for the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut, and a POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench may be used to tighten the POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (see below for details). 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).

Post mounting is provided by four #8 (M4) counterbored holes. 8-32 and M4 cap screws are included. 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; for details, see the PDF drawing by clicking on the Docs icon ( info icon ) below.

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø2" optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.005".

Ø2" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

Ø2in Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

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POLARIS-K2F2 2-Adjuster, Low-Distortion Mount

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POLARIS-K2F1 with POLARIS-LN1 lock nut installed. Two dowel pin holes on either side of the #8 counterbore are visible on the side of the mount.

2-Adjuster Low-Distortion Mount Designed for Ø2" Optics^a
Removable Knob- or Hex-Driven Design
100 TPI Matched Actuator / Body Pairs
All-Stainless-Steel, Matched CTE Construction
Less Than 2 µrad Deviation after Temperature Cycling (See the Test Data Tab)
Adjusters can be Locked Using POLARIS-LN1 Lock Nuts

These 2-adjuster Ø2" 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. They use an integrated matched adjuster/body design for greater durability. Both knob- and hex-driven versions of the 2-adjuster mount are available. These mounts have undergone extensive testing to ensure high-quality performance.

The knobs on the POLARIS-K2F1 100 TPI adjusters are removable; with the knobs removed, the position can be adjusted with our HKTS-5/64 hex key thumbscrew (available separately below) or any other 5/64" hex wrench. The adjusters can be locked using POLARIS-LN1 lock nut or POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar, which are available below. The beam can be held on target with the adjuster thumbscrew or hex key while lightly tightening the lock nut or locking collar by hand. Alternatively, a 13 mm hex open-ended wrench may be used for the POLARIS-LN1 lock nut, and a POLARIS-T2 spanner wrench may be used to tighten the POLARIS-LNS1 locking collar (see below for details). 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).

a. Please note that these mounts are designed for Ø2" optics with a tolerance of +0/-0.005".

1/4"-100 Large Adjustment Knob

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F25USK2 Knob Shown Attached to a POLARIS-K1 Mirror Mount

Ø0.925" Knob for Additional Angular Resolution
Clearance Hole Allows Access to Hex Socket of the Adjuster

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.

Removable Knob for 1/4"-100 Adjusters

Removable Knob for 1/4in-100 Adjusters<br>

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POLARIS-K1C4 Mount with Optic and Optional POLARIS-N5 Removable Knobs

Compatible Mounts
POLARIS-K25S4/M POLARIS-K1C4 POLARIS-K1G4 POLARIS-K1S4 POLARIS-K1S5 POLARIS-K15S4 POLARIS-K15F4 POLARIS-K50S4/M

For Convenient Adjustment of 1/4"-100 Adjusters
Attaches Directly to Adjuster Threading
Sold Individually

The Polaris^® Removable Knobs for 1/4"-100 Adjusters allows the user to adjust a Polaris kinematic mirror mount by hand. The knobs can be used with select Polaris mounts, listed in the table to the right. Note that when the knobs are used with any of these mounts, they will block the side through holes on the adjuster. The adjuster screw's 5/64" (2 mm) hex socket is still usable when the knobs are attached.

The knobs are made from chemically cleaned and heat-treated 303 stainless steel that provides vacuum compatibility down to 10^-9 Torr at 25 °C with proper bake out (10^-5 Torr at 25 °C without bake out).

POLARIS-K1C4 and POLARIS-K1S4 Mounts purchased before September 21, 2016 cannot be used with the POLARIS-N5 Removable Knobs sold here.
To order compatible knobs, please contact Tech Support.

5/64" Hex Key Adjusters

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POLARIS-K1-2AH 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.

Side Hole Adjustment Tool for Polaris^® Mounts

Side Hole Adjustment Tool for Polaris<sup>®</sup> Mounts

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The SA1 Adjusting a POLARIS-K1S4 Using the Side Holes and Rear Hex

Ø0.07" Precision-Fit Tip for Side Holes on Polaris Adjusters
5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex on Handle
Magnetic, Chemically Cleaned Stainless Steel

The Side Hole Adjustment Tool features a Ø0.07" precision-fit tip designed for Polaris mounts with side hole adjusters. The handle features a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex allowing the SA1 to act as a small knob, and the central nut is compatible with a 6.0 mm wrench allowing for a longer lever arm. The precision-fit tip minimizes backlash during adjustments and the depth stop allows the tool to rest securely in a side hole between adjustments. On Ø25 mm mirror mounts and larger, the 1.62" length allows the tool to adjust the actuator 360° without interfering with the other adjuster on the back of the mount.

The SA1 is made of chemically cleaned, hardened, super alloy stainless steel for durability and compatibility with clean environments. The tool is also magnetic allowing it to be easily retrieved from tight or sensitive setups using a magnet.

Adjuster Lock Nuts for Polaris Mounts

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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.

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POLARIS-LN05 Lock Nuts on a POLARIS-K19S4 Mount

Provide Long Term Adjuster Stability
Compatible with Select Polaris Mounts
POLARIS-LN05 Lock Nut has 3/16"-130 Internal Threading
POLARIS-LN1 Lock Nut has 1/4"-100 Internal Threading

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.

1/4"-100 Adjuster Locking Collar for Polaris^® Mounts

1/4in-100 Adjuster Locking Collar for Polaris<sup>®</sup> Mounts

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Provides Long Term Adjuster Stability
Compatible with Select Polaris Mounts
Low Profile: Ø0.33" (Ø8.4 mm) x 0.08" (1.9 mm) Thick
Tighten Along Rotational Axis Using the POLARIS-T2 Spanner Wrench

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.

Torque Wrenches for Polaris Lock Nuts

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TW6 Torque Wrench Used to Secure POLARIS-LN05 Lock Nut on POLARIS-K05T2 Mirror Mount

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Each wrench is engraved with its preset torque value and item #.

Preset Wrenches for Polaris Lock Nuts:
- TW6: 24 oz-in for POLARIS-LN05 Lock Nut
- TW13: 32 oz-in for POLARIS-LN1 Lock Nut and POLARIS-T2 Spanner Wrench, as well as POLARIS-LN4 Lock Nut
Break-Over Design Ensures Proper Torque is Applied
Ideal for Applications Requiring Long-Term Locking
Hex Size: 6 mm or 13 mm

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.

These wrenches are designed to be compatible with cleanroom and vacuum chamber applications. They are chemically cleaned using the Carpenter AAA passivation method to remove sulfur, iron, and contaminants from the surface. After passivation, they are assembled in a clean environment and double vacuum bagged to eliminate contamination when transported into a cleanroom. Every wrench has a bead blasted finish to minimize reflections when working with setups that include lasers.

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).

Item #	Torque	Torque Accuracy	Hex	Compatible Item #s
TW6	24 oz-in (0.17 N•m)	±1.44 oz-in (0.010 N•m)	6 mm	POLARIS-LN05
TW13	32 oz-in (0.23 N•m)	±1.92 oz-in (0.014 N•m)	13 mm	POLARIS-LN1, POLARIS-T2, POLARIS-LN4

View All »Matching Part Numbers

Polaris® Low-Distortion Kinematic Mirror Mounts

Features

Installing an Optic into a Polaris Low-Distortion Mount

Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Mounts

Ø19 mm Low-Distortion Mounts

Ø25 mm Low-Distortion Mounts

Ø1.5" Low-Distortion Mounts

Ø50 mm Low-Distortion Mounts

Ø1" Low-Distortion Mounts

Ø2" Low-Distortion Mounts

Simulation Results for POLARIS-K05F6 Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Mount*

Simulation Results for POLARIS-K1F Ø1" Low-Distortion Mount*

Optical Distortion Testing Using a ZYGO Phase-Shifting Interferometer

Ø1/2" Mounts

Ø19 mm Mount

Ø25 mm Mounts

Ø1" Mounts

Ø1.5" Mounts

Ø50 mm Mounts

Ø2" Mounts

Positional Repeatability After Thermal Shock

Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

Ø1/2" Low-Distortion Kinematic Mounts, 2 Adjusters

Ø19 mm Low-Distortion Kinematic Mounts, 2 Adjusters

Ø25 mm Polaris Low Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

Ø1" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

Ø1" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mounts, 2 Adjusters

Ø1.5" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

Ø50 mm Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

Ø2" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 3 Adjusters

Ø2" Polaris Low-Distortion Kinematic Mount, 2 Adjusters

1/4"-100 Large Adjustment Knob

Removable Knob for 1/4"-100 Adjusters

5/64" Hex Key Adjusters

Side Hole Adjustment Tool for Polaris® Mounts

Adjuster Lock Nuts for Polaris Mounts

1/4"-100 Adjuster Locking Collar for Polaris® Mounts

Torque Wrenches for Polaris Lock Nuts

Side Hole Adjustment Tool for Polaris^® Mounts

1/4"-100 Adjuster Locking Collar for Polaris^® Mounts