Feedforward Adaptive-Optic Correction of Aero-Optical Aberrations Caused by a Two-Dimensional Heated Jet

摘要

A feedforward adaptive-optic correction was made on a known, repeatable aero-optical aberration caused by a two-dimensional heated jet. Since the bandwidth requirements for traditional closed-loop adaptive-optic correction are significantly higher than current technology limitations, an unconventional feedforward adaptive-optic correction scheme was experimentally tested to determine the feasibility of adaptive-optic corrections for aero-optical disturbances in general. The feedforward adaptive-optic approach was successful in correcting aero-optical disturbances at a frequency of 240 Hz, as evidenced through Shack-Hartmann wave front sensor measurements. The feedforward correction scheme exceeded simulated performance predictions when it was able to boost the time-averaged Strehl ratio from 0.64 without correction to 0.88 with correction.