On September 17, 2018, we got our first look at the MagAO-X vAPP (that’s “vector apodizing phase plate”) coronagraph optic. Kelsey Miller had been working with the phase pattern for a long time, but there’s something special about holding it with your own hands. Or, at any rate, watching the P.I. hold it with his own hands.
Despite the complicated phase pattern, it looks pretty much clear except for the reflective mask. At extreme angles, you can get some purple from (I think) an AR coating. 
Jared and Kelsey clean the hardware to hold the vAPP. 
Jared inserts the vAPP in the holder… 
…and in it goes!
