A review of published adaptive optics science: A bright future for adaptive optics

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this review, the current (July. 2002) refereed astronomy journals have been surveyed for all AO papers dealing with astronomical science. In the last 9 years, 144 refereed pure science AO papers in solar system, stellar, and extra-galactic astronomy were selected. Of these 144 papers, 28% have been published in the last 18 months. The vast majority of these papers (67%) utilize broad-band near infrared imaging (J, H & K'). More complex techniques (narrowband NIR imaging, L band imaging, AO spectroscopy (2D & 3D), polarimetry, coronography) are becoming robust AO techniques in the NIR (1-2.5 μm). Of less current published success is visible (0.5-1 μm) AO, due in part from the complex technical issues, and also in part from the stiff competition from HST. As well there appears to have been little AO science in the M band. Laser guide stars have surprisingly not yet matured to a point where they enhance the science capabilities of the telescopes that have them. Now that the latest generation of 6-10m AO systems (and their facility AO camera/spectrographs) are finishing the commissioning phases we should see further robust growth in AO science in the immediate future and well into the decade.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)84-100
Number of pages17
JournalProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume4834
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002
EventDiscoveries and Research Prospects from 6- to 10- Meter-Class telescopes II - Waikoloa, HI, United States
Duration: Aug 22 2002Aug 23 2002

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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