Asian Journal of Physics Vol. 33, Nos 5 & 6 (2024) 335-347

Use of low-cost spatial light modulators for emulation of wavefront degrading effects

D Malone1,2 and N Devaney1
1Applied Optics, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
2Centre for Advanced Instrumentation, Durham University, Stockton Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom

Astronomical images obtained using ground-based telescopes are subjected to atmospheric turbulence. Adaptive Optics uses wavefront sensors to measure the effect of turbulence on target stars and sends commands to a deformable mirror to correct for the turbulence, resulting in sharper images. These systems can be tested by simulating the atmospheric turbulence using hardware, usually rotating phase plates. More recently, Spatial Light Modulators have been tested as possible alternatives. These devices can also emulate other effects experienced by extremely large telescopes, such as the misalignment of primary mirror segments, and discontinuity of zones separated by the secondary mirror supports. This paper will review the technology behind two low-cost off-the-shelf spatial light modulators and investigate their ability to emulate atmospheric turbulence and mirror segmentation. © Anita Publications. All rights reserved.
Doi: 10.54955/AJP.33.5-6.2024.335-347
Keywords: Spatial Light Modulators, Adaptive Optics, Wavefront Sensing.

Peer Review Information
Method: Single- anonymous; Screened for Plagiarism? Yes
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