adaptive optics definition

  • noun:
    • An optical system in telescopes that reduces atmospheric distortion by dynamically calculating and fixing wavefront aberrations immediately, often by using a deformable mirror.
    • an optical system found in some telescopes considering that the 1980's which rapidly changes the form of main reflecting mirror to regulate for distortions of light that are caused by atmospheric turbulence. By reducing the distortions due to the atmosphere, telescopes fitted with such optics can achieve a higher resolving power than usual telescopes with static mirrors.
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