History of the Shack Hartmann wavefront sensor and its impact in ophthalmic optics

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

The Shack Hartmann wavefront sensor is a technology that was developed at the Optical Sciences Center at the University of Arizona in the late 1960s. It is a robust technique for measuring wavefront error that was originally developed for large telescopes to measure errors induced by atmospheric turbulence. The Shack Hartmann sensor has evolved to become a relatively common non-interferometric metrology tool in a variety of fields. Its broadest impact has been in the area of ophthalmic optics where it is used to measure ocular aberrations. The data the Shack Hartmann sensor provides enables custom LASIK treatments, often enhancing visual acuity beyond normal levels. In addition, the Shack Hartmann data coupled with adaptive optics systems enables unprecedented views of the retina. This paper traces the evolution of the technology from the early use of screen-type tests, to the incorporation of lenslet arrays and finally to one of its modern applications, measuring the human eye.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationFifty Years of Optical Sciences at the University of Arizona
EditorsJohn E. Greivenkamp, Eustace L. Dereniak, Harrison H. Barrett
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Electronic)9781628412130
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014
Event50 Years of Optical Sciences at the University of Arizona - San Diego, United States
Duration: Aug 19 2014Aug 20 2014

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume9186
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Other

Other50 Years of Optical Sciences at the University of Arizona
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego
Period8/19/148/20/14

Keywords

  • LASIK
  • Shack Hartmann
  • adaptive optics
  • retinal imaging
  • wavefront sensing

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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