This book by one of the leaders in adaptive optics covers the fundamental theory and then describes in detail how this technology can be applied to large ground-based telescopes to compensate for the effects of atmospheric turbulence. It includes information on basic adaptive optics components and technology, and has chapters devoted to atmospheric turbulence, optical image structure, laser beacons, and overall system design. The chapter on system design is particularly detailed and includes performance estimation and optimization. Combining a clear discussion of physical principles with numerous real-world examples, this book will be a valuabe resource for all graduate students and researchers in astronomy and optics.
Readership: Professional astronomers and graduate students in astronomy and optics.
1: The short, eventful history of adaptive optics 2: Adaptive optics in astronomy 3: Optical effects of atmospheric turbulence 4: Optical image structure 5: Optical wavefront sensors 6: Wavefront correctors 7: Laser beacons 8: Wavefront reconstruction and control systems 9: Adaptive optics performance analysis and optimization 10: Astronomical adaptive optics programs Appendices
