Reconfigurable Shack-Hartmann sensor without moving elements

Opt Lett. 2010 May 1;35(9):1338-40. doi: 10.1364/OL.35.001338.

Abstract

We demonstrate wavefront sensing with variable measurement sensitivity and dynamic range by means of a programmable microlens array implemented onto an off-the-shelf twisted nematic liquid crystal display operating as a phase-only spatial light modulator. Electronic control of the optical power of a liquid lens inserted at the aperture stop of a telecentric relay system allows sensing reconfigurability without moving components. Results of laboratory experiments show the ability of the setup to detect both smooth and highly aberrated wavefronts with adequate sensitivity.