Bypass optical switch and methods

Abstract

An optical system (e.g., a telescope) comprising an optical assembly that reflects and refracts light rays through a single window about an optical path to a detector. A field-of-view switch assembly comprises a mount, having a pair of diverter mirrors, movably coupled to the optical assembly and being selectively movable between a non-bypass position and a bypass position. The diverter mirrors bypass a first field-of-view and translate a second field-of-view (both through the single window) when moved from the non-bypass position to the bypass position to redirect the optical path. The diverter mirrors straddle the optical path in the non-bypass position. A dynamic shutter shields the second diverter mirror and exposes the second diverter mirror when moved between non-bypass and bypass positions. A four-bar linkage mechanism rotates the mount with an on-board motor and a torsional shaft to absorb impact forces. Associated methods are provided for facilitating switching between fields-of-view.