A Front Surface Mirror (FSM) has its reflective layer very close to the surface of the mirror. In an ordinary mirror, the reflective coating is much further behind the surface of the glass.
If you were to put an object against an ordinary mirror, the part of the object touching the mirror would be reflected. This is sometimes called the "ghosting effect" or double image. In the case of an FSM, the part of the object touching the mirror is not reflected because the reflective surface is so close to the object.
FSMs are are used in specialist applications where the ghosting effect of a normal mirror is not wanted. They are used in photography, telescopes, periscopes and projection televisions.
Where can I buy Front Surface Mirrors?
We supply FSMs in a range of sizes and thicknesses. Please contact us with details of your project.