The Polaris® Optical Product Suite
The complete Polaris® Optical tracking system relies on two primary components working together:
Polaris® Optical Trackers
NDI offers four Polaris Optical Tracker models that have distinct configurations relating to hardware size, measurement rate, latency, noise, accuracy, and data connectivity. Every model delivers trusted sub-millimetre accuracy and high-performance tracking.
Polaris Vega® XT – Premium Tracking
Built for next-generation robotic and high-speed navigation applications requiring sub-3 ms latency and responsive control.
Polaris Vega® VT – Enables Video Tracking
Combines Optical tracking with integrated HD video to support Augmented Reality (AR) and machine vision workflows within OEM surgical navigation systems.
Polaris Vega® ST – Versatile Tracking
A reliable, adaptable Optical Tracker designed for diverse clinical environments, including radiation-exposed workflows.
Polaris Lyra® – Compact Tracking
A compact Optical Tracker delivering reliable tracking performance in confined workflows and localized clinical applications.
Polaris Optical Tracker Comparison
| Feature | ST | VT | XT | Lyra |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Designed For | Radiation suites | AR & video-enabled visualization | Robotics & high-speed navigation | Compact OR setups |
| Accuracy (RMS) | 0.12- 0.15 mm | 0.12 – 0.15 mm | 0.12 – 0.15 mm | 0.20 – 0.25 mm |
| Max Frame Rate | 60 Hz | 60 Hz | 400 Hz | 125 Hz |
| Latency | <17 ms | <17 ms | <3 ms | <5 ms |
| Measurement Volume Depth | 2.40 m (pyramid) 3.00 m (extended) | 2.40 m (pyramid) 3.00 m (extended) |
2.40 m (pyramid) 3.00 m (extended) |
1.42m (pyramid) 1.80m (extended) |
| HD Video | – | ✓ | – | – |
| Radiation Hardened Option | ✓ | – | – | – |
| Length | 591 mm | 591 mm | 591 mm | 276 mm |
Polaris® Optical Markers
NDI offers three marker types to support a wide range of Optical tracking needs. Paired with a Polaris Optical Tracker, these markers give OEMs flexibility to tailor performance, durability, and workflow integration to their clinical application.
NDI Passive Spheres™
FDA-regulated, retro reflective markers designed for easy setup in navigated procedures. Available in sterile and non-sterile options.
Learn More →
Threaded Sphere
(Brainlab® Systems Only)
A single-use, sterile passive marker sphere for use with Brainlab image-guided surgery systems and instruments with threaded posts.
Learn More →
Polaris Radix™ Lens
Wipeable markers designed for high-risk contamination environments like orthopaedic surgeries, without compromising accuracy.
Polaris IRED Active Markers
A low-profile, near-infrared LED (IRED) mounted on a ceramic base that delivers robust tracking for dynamic surgical robotic systems.
Learn More →
Polaris Optical Marker Comparison
| Feature | NDI Passive Spheres™ | Polaris® Radix™ Lens | Polaris® Active Markers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Reflects infrared light | Reflects infrared light | Emits infrared light (LED-based) |
| Key Advantages | Easy installation Wide viewing angle FDA-regulated medical device | Wipeable Performs well with partial occlusion | Compact, low-profile design Tracks under surgical draping Flexible tool design Wired and wireless options |
| Reusable? | Single-Use | Single-Use or Reusable* | Reusable |
| Best Fit | Low-contamination environments (e.g., cranial neurosurgery or non-surgical procedures) | High-contamination environments (e.g., orthopaedic, spine, or trauma procedures) | Robotic-assisted & dynamic surgical procedures |
Polaris® Development Tools & Accessories
Designed to complement Polaris Optical tracking systems, NDI offers tools and accessory kits to support OEM development, testing, and prototyping.
Polaris Rigid Bodies & Probes
Factory calibrated tools ready for instant tool tracking.
Polaris Lyra® Adapters
Offer flexible mounting and grounding options to support diverse integration needs.
Polaris Starter Kit
Everything needed to get started with your Polaris Optical Tracker, including rigid bodies, clamps, probes, and NDI Passive and Active Markers.
Polaris Tool Developer Kits
Modular components and mounting posts for rapid prototyping of custom tools.
Polaris Accuracy Assessment Kit (AAK)
Verify your Polaris Optical Tracker accuracy on site and on demand.
Polaris & KUKA Development Kit
A ready-to-use development kit to design and launch medical robots faster.
Polaris Software
NDI software solutions support configuration, validation, and integration of Polaris® Optical tracking technology into OEM systems, supporting OEM teams across development.
OEM Applications
NDI provides Optical and Electromagnetic tracking technology for OEMs across a range of markets. These technologies are designed as OEM components for integration into medical devices developed by OEM partners for image-guided, navigation, and positioning applications.
Cranial
Supports OEM navigation systems used in neurosurgical and neuromodulation procedures involving the brain and skull.
Orthopaedics
Supports OEM systems used in orthopaedic procedures involving bone resection and implant placement.
Spinal
Supports OEM systems used for positioning and placement of spinal stabilization hardware.
Integrating Polaris Optical Tracking into Your Navigation System?
Connect with our Product Integration team to identify the right Polaris Optical Tracker and marker configuration for your cranial, spine, or orthopaedic navigation system.