Cleaning Optical Systems and Instruments

doi:10.1117/3.1001008.ch6

Book: The Proper Care of Optics: Cleaning, Handling, Storage, and Shipping

Author(s): Robert Schalck

Published: 2013

https://doi.org/10.1117/3.1001008.ch6

Abstract

This chapter discusses the methods used to clean various common optical instruments. Each optical system is unique, but the methods described here are simple enough to apply to most systems. The first sections describe hand techniques, inspection methods, commonly used tools, and marking methods to assist reassembly. The middle sections detail the requirements for cleaning telescopes, microscopes, and associated optics. Also explained is how to keep instruments covered when not in use and stored properly. The simplest of optics - a pair of eyeglasses - is covered in the final section.