1.Fused Silica in Space Art

The “Moon Gallery” project, a global art initiative with the European Space Agency, plans to put 100 artworks on the moon by 2025. One standout piece is a silica cube with tree ring engravings, made with help from artist Jamal Ageli, Leica Camera Germany, and Ernst Abbe University. They chose Heraeus silica for its ability to withstand space radiation.

2.Silica in Telescopes

Chile’s Paranal Observatory is adding the MOONS device to its big telescope. This will let it see more of the universe, including details of distant stars. MOONS uses a special silica lens to focus light into fibers, captured by the Infrasil system, which is clear in infrared light. This clear silica is also used in surgery to guide lasers into the body.

3.Laser Fibers in Industry

There’s a growing need for laser fibers in factories and hospitals. These fibers have a core and a cladding, made from pure silica or a mix with fluorine to handle strong laser light. Changing the cladding’s shape can make the lasers work even better.