Optics for a "Far-Afield" Environment

Factors involved in installation, use, and maintenance of optics in "remote" locations and adverse environments are discussed in terms of what should and shouldn't be designed and built to make life easier for those who are destined to use and maintain them. Factors requiring consideration include, but are not limited to, distance from competent assistance, the limited competence of locally available assistance, the limited quantity and nature of test and handling equipment at many field sites and the less-than-ideal environment in which many systems must survive and produce hopefully ideal results.