Development of the Self-Referencing Interferometer Wavefront Sensor (Postprint)
Abstract
The self-referencing Interferometer (SRI), is an innovative wavefront sensor (WFS) developed specifically for applications requiring laser propagation in strong scintillation. The performance of conventional gradient sensors, like a Shack-Hartmann WFS or lateral shearing interferometer are severely limited in these environments due to the presence of branch points in the wavefront phase. Unlike these sensors, the SRI WFS directly measures the wavefront field so that its performance is not affected by the presence of branch points. Over the last two years under funding from the from the High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office, the Starfire Optical Range has been developing a prototype SRI WFS to demonstrate its advantages in strong scintillation environments. This paper discusses practical lessons learned in building an operating a SRI WFS and presents initial results from laboratory tests.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 30, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA471899
Entities
People
- Troy A. Rhoadarmer
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory