Introduction to Fourier Optics, by Joseph Goodman (McGraw Hill, 1996)
Adaptive Optics in Astronomy, edited by Francois Roddier (Cambridge University Press, 1999)
Adaptive Optics for Astronomical Telescopes, by J.W. Hardy (Oxford University Press, 1998)
Learning Objectives
The main educational objectives of the course are as follows:
Knowledge and Understanding: Detailed knowledge of the principles of image formation through turbulent atmosphere and techniques for compensating for aberrations introduced by the Earth's atmosphere.
Ability to Apply Knowledge and Understanding: The ability to model simple adaptive optics systems and predict their performance. The ability to employ mathematical and numerical tools to address more complex aspects of adaptive optics beyond what is covered in the course.
Communication Skills: The capacity to use precise mathematical and physical language essential for a quantitative description of the phenomena discussed in adaptive optics.
Prerequisites
3 years laurea in Physics
Teaching Methods
Lectures, numerical exercises (8-12h) and laboratory or numerical exercises (4-6h)
Type of Assessment
Oral exam
The oral exam, which lasts approximately 45 minutes, requires the student to respond to two to three questions related to the topics covered in the course. A non-exhaustive list of possible questions is provided to students via Moodle and explained during the final course lecture. The student should use appropriate language to demonstrate their understanding of the fundamental physical aspects of the discipline. More specific questions may be asked during the discussion of the topics to better assess the student's level of comprehension. The student should be able to succinctly frame the requested topic but also fully develop the mathematical model if it has been presented during the course.
Course program
Introduction to basic principle: geometric and physical optics, basic theory of feedback control system, optical telescopes.
Theory of adaptive optic systems: wavefront sensors, deformable mirrors, natural and laser guide stars. Optical quality of compensated images.
Review of main current and future astronomical adaptive optics systems.