Adaptive Optics

The primary goal of this JRA is to develop the concepts, designs and technologies required for the next generation of Adaptive Optics (AO) capabilities which will equip large telescopes over the next decade. Three possible AO systems will be investigated in parallel, Natural Guide Star (NGS) Extreme AO (XAO); Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics (MCAO) with multiple Fields of View; and multi Laser Guide Star (LGS) systems.

The participants will perform feasibility studies, develop prototypes and support R& for the enabling technologies. R&D will be pursued for high accuracy and high dynamic range wavefront sensing, high computing power real time computer (RTC) hardware and software, MCAO control theory, large deformable mirrors, high-density piezo stack deformable mirrors, high-density large stroke micro-mirrors and associated control electronics.

The Chair of the Adaptive Optics Joint Research Activity is N Hubin (ESO): nhubin @ eso.org

For a PDF file copy of N Hubin's presentation of this Research Activity to the OPTICON I3 Board meeting in Ghent 1 - 2 April 2004, click here:

JRA1: Adaptive Optics

Go to the JRA website (some pages protected by passwords)