A microelectromechanical (MEM) apparatus is disclosed which includes a
platform that can be electrostatically tilted from being parallel to a
substrate on which the platform to being tilted at an angle of 1 20
degrees with respect to the substrate. Once the platform has been tilted
to a maximum angle of tilt, the platform can be locked in position using
an electrostatically-operable latching mechanism which engages a tab
protruding below the platform. The platform has a light-reflective upper
surface which can be optionally coated to provide an enhanced
reflectivity and form a micromirror. An array of such micromirrors can be
formed on a common substrate for applications including optical switching
(e.g. for fiber optic communications), optical information processing,
image projection displays or non-volatile optical memories.