Michael Hart (The University of Arizona), N. Mark Milton (The University of Arizona), Keith Powell (The University of Arizona), Christoph Baranec (California Institute of Technology), Thomas Stalcup (The University of Arizona), Eduardo Bendek (The University of Arizona), Don McCarthy (The University of Arizona), Craig Kulesa (The University of Arizona)
Keywords: Adaptive Optics
Abstract:
Adaptive optics systems can measure and correct high-order aberrations using an artificial laser beacon without the need for a relatively bright object near the object being imaged. Several types of photosensors, each with different performance requirements, are required to operate an adaptive optics system. Wavefront sensing requires sensors with a few hundred pixels, which make a few thousand images per second. Tracking or tilt measurement requires less than 10 pixels, but must be read several thousand times per second to measure atmospheric tilt and telescope mount jitter. Finally, imaging or science sensors require upwards of a million pixels, but typically make less than 30 images per second. All of these sensors require low read noise, high pixel digitization rates, and wide dynamic range. In this paper, I discuss the sensors we have developed and plan to use for the adaptive optics upgrade to the Starfire Optical Range (SOR) 3.5 m telescope. I discuss how improvements in sensor performance impact the capability of the adaptive optics system and, ultimately, the quality of the science images.
Date of Conference: September 1-4. 2009
Track: Adaptive Optics