Beaconless Dual-Mode Wavefront Sensor (BlessWFS)

ABSTRACT: The U.S. Air Force needs a mission critical, high-performance electro-optical system capable of active or passive detection and characterization of a wavefront backscattered by an object of interest. In the AS&T novel concept proposed in the response to the Air Force requirements, a target-scattered coherent or incoherent complex optical field is detected by a dual-form optical sensor. The architecture of this beaconless wavefront sensor (BlessWFS) and direct post-processing of this detected field allows the retrieval and complete characterization of the wavefront. During Phase I AS&T designed, integrated and performed proof-of-concept experiments demonstrating the performance of the beaconless wavefront sensing technique. During Phase II, AS&T will extend the performance capabilities of the system, design and build a brassboard for verifying and optimizing the predicted system performance, demonstrate and refine laboratory operation, and estimate the working envelope. The program will culminate with a field demonstration of pre-prototype level BlessWFS performance in an operationally relevant environment. BENEFIT: An important benefit of the proposed concept is the development of an advanced sensor with unique capabilities that allows the detection and characterization of a complex wavefront from a coherent or incoherent illuminated object. The technologies developed under this effort are suitable for various applications including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance needs of ground-based systems, airborne usage, or space deployment. In the commercial sector, this technology can support needs and requirements of air-traffic control platforms, astronomic and microscopy systems, laser telecom, as well as wavefront detection during ophthalmological treatments and vision correction operations.