Abstract

We demonstrate a new type of adaptive imaging system capable of improving the quality of phase-distorted images of extended objects. The operational algorithm was based on optimization of the spectral image quality criteria suggested in [1]. For adaptive control of the nine-electrode semi-passive bimorph mirror we used gradient optimization algorithms. To introduce slowly varying large scale phase distortions into the imaging system a second deformable mirror with computer control was used. Small scale phase distortions were created using the nonlinear optics technique described in [2]. Image quality criteria were measured using the optical image quality analyzer described in [1].

© 1996 Optical Society of America