Adaptive optics (AO) is a technology used to improve the performance of optical systems by reducing the effects of atmospheric distortions. The Earth's atmosphere can cause light passing through it to experience distortions, resulting in image blurring and degradation in various optical applications, such as astronomical observations, laser communications, and imaging systems. Adaptive optics systems actively adjust the optical elements in real-time to compensate for these distortions.
Key features and principles of adaptive optics include:
Wavefront sensing: Adaptive optics systems typically include a wavefront sensor that measures the distortions introduced by the atmosphere. The wavefront sensor provides information about the phase and amplitude variations of the incoming light.
Deformable mirror: The core component of an adaptive optics system is the deformable mirror. Based on the information provided by the wavefront sensor, the deformable mirror dynamically changes its shape to counteract the distortions introduced by the atmosphere. By adjusting the mirror's surface, the optical system can effectively correct for aberrations.
Real-time control: Adaptive optics systems operate in real-time, continuously adjusting the deformable mirror to compensate for changes in atmospheric conditions. The correction is typically made at a high frequency to account for rapid changes in the atmosphere.
Applications:
Astronomy: Adaptive optics is widely used in astronomy to enhance the resolution of telescopes by compensating for atmospheric turbulence. It allows astronomers to obtain clearer and more detailed images of celestial objects.
Free-space optical communication: In laser communication systems, adaptive optics can be used to mitigate the effects of atmospheric turbulence, improving the reliability and performance of free-space optical links.
Medical imaging: Adaptive optics techniques are explored in medical imaging to enhance the quality of retinal imaging, particularly in techniques like retinal imaging and ophthalmoscopy.
Laser systems: Adaptive optics is used in laser systems to maintain the quality and focus of laser beams over long distances.
See also active optics; phase conjugation.