Optimally Packaged Assembly for Laser Systems (OPALS)

Description: The Air Force seeks lightweight, compactly packaged optical systems for beam control in airborne high-energy laser systems, focusing on optimizing the internal optics rather than developing new outer moldlines or turret designs. The system should perform the canonical beam-control functions and prioritize ease of alignment and component replacement, potential line-replaceable units, beam-path conditioning, and materials that do not shed contaminants. Potential approaches include rugged optical designs and packaging, vibration-, shock-, and thermal-tolerant architectures, advanced materials and precision assembly, and passive or active athermalization.