Correcting Aberrated Wavefronts from Synthetic Apertures Holographically

摘要

This thesis describes research to investigate how well holographic optical elements reduce abberations in synthetic aperture optical systems. Using holograms to correct aberrated wavefronts from synthetic apertures provides a viable alternative to using active control systems to perform the same function. The holographic technique has applications to the Strategic Defense Initiative, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, and high technology manufacturing processes. A model for a three-element synthetic aperture system was developed to determine how the wavefronts from the elements combine in the image plane. The model includes developing the technique for introducing a holographic optical element to correct aberrations from individual elements in the aperture and from misalignments in the system. Based on this model, a proof-of-concept system was developed. Finally, the results of experiments to evaluate the point spread function of the empirical system are described. The report concludes that holographic optical elements can provide an alternative to control systems when combined with synthetic apertures to replace monolithic optics in applications requiring diffraction limited imaging systems.