Kyocera to develop ceramic mirrors for lighter telescopes

Japan company's material can reduce weight by two-thirds compared with glass

20240807N Kyoto Sangyo University telescope

The primary mirror of the telescope at Kyoto Sangyo University's Koyama Astronomical Observatory will be swapped out for a ceramic mirror. (Kyoto Sangyo University)

EISAKU NITTA, Nikkei staff writer

KYOTO -- Kyocera is partnering with Kyoto Sangyo University and a Japanese optical instrument designer to use mirrors made from lightweight ceramic rather than glass in astronomical telescopes.

The partners plan to swap out the primary light-gathering mirror of the reflecting telescope at Kyoto Sangyo's Koyama Astronomical Observatory for a new ceramic version. The replacement is expected to be completed next year.

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