Advances in Wavefront Correction and Estimation at the Princeton University High-Contrast Testbed
Abstract
In this paper, we present advances made in both the correction and estimation of aberrated wavefronts with shaped pupil coronagraphs for high-contrast imaging. We review and show experimental results in the use of two sequential deformable mirrors (DMs) for the creation of a symmetric dark hole in the image plane. The stroke minimization algorithm is used to calculate DM settings that will create the dark hole while limiting the stroke required on the DM actuators. In addition, we present a two-camera wavefront estimation scheme that is less dependent on knowledge of the DM surface than traditional estimation by diversity on the DM. This algorithm is used to overcome dependence of the estimate on uncertainties in the DM surface shape. We show both simulation and laboratory results of the two deformable mirror correction using both estimation schemes. This is an essential step toward a comprehensive high-contrast imaging system for planet detection and characterization.
- Publication:
-
American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts #213
- Pub Date:
- January 2009
- Bibcode:
- 2009AAS...21345109K