Founded by Al Nagler in 1980, Tele Vue Optics designs and produces telescopes and precision eyepieces for astronomical and terrestrial viewing. The Chester, New York, company is known for optical lines such as Nagler and Ethos, while its birding scopes are built in the USA and tested for high-power observation. Many Tele Vue designs remain in production for decades, reflecting a deliberately long-lived approach to optical equipment.
Rayleigh Optical CorporationSince 1987, co-founders Vilma and David Anderson have operated Rayleigh Optical Corporation as a worldwide fabricator of large custom precision optics. The Hanover, Maryland, company specializes in spherical and aspherical components from 0.25 to 1.5 meters, with its mirrors and lenses used at premier astronomical sites including Pan-STARRS and the Dark Energy Survey Instrument. It also extends its shop and expertise to amateur telescope makers through its planned Center for Amateur Optics and Telescope Making.HALETHORPE, MD
Optec, IncSince 1979, Lowell-based Optec, Inc. has designed and manufactured electro-optical equipment that helps astronomers and astrophotographers capture better images. The small firm also develops solutions for atmospheric science and microscopy, pairing specialized products with software support for astronomy users around the world.ABINGDON, MD
Nu-Tek Precision Optical CorporationNu-Tek Precision Optical Corporation grew from a 1987 venture founded by nine master opticians, supervisors, and technicians, many of whom remain part of its core team today. This privately held Maryland small business develops custom precision optics for aerospace and scientific customers, with NASA-qualified flight hardware among its documented work. Its 15,000-square-foot Aberdeen operation supports projects ranging from prototypes to light production.ABERDEEN, MD