Optical Dome | Optical Fairing for IR & Visible Imaging

What is Optical Dome?

Optical Dome is a hollow curved optical shell mounted outside cameras or optical sensors. It combines optical window, environmental protection and (for aerospace version) aerodynamic shaping. It is not a solid lens. The inner cavity reserves space for lenses and detectors, both inner and outer surfaces are precision optically polished.

Three Core Functions

• Protection: Block dust, rain, moisture and physical impact. Focus on material strength, weather resistance, sealing and mounting interface.
• Optical Transmission: Transmit target wavelength band to imaging system. Control transmittance, aberration and stray light. Support AR, BBAR, DLC coatings.
• Aerodynamic Fairing (Airborne Only): Smooth airflow for pods or aircraft. Optimize outer contour and transition structure to reduce turbulence.

Available Shapes

Hemispherical, spherical cap, ellipsoidal, ogival (pointed arch). Shape selection depends on FOV, imaging performance and aerodynamic requirements. Curved surface refraction will introduce aberration, so curvature, wall thickness uniformity and air gap with rear optics must be co-simulated with your optical system.

Available Materials & Coatings (Felix Glass)

Typical Applications

Airborne survey camera pods, thermal infrared imaging, multi-spectral payload, underwater optical detection, security optical sensors, UAV electro-optical systems.