Production of Phase Screens for Simulation of Atmospheric Turbulence

TL;DR

This paper presents a low-cost method for creating phase screens using acrylic paint to simulate atmospheric turbulence for adaptive optics testing, validated by interferometry and used in multiple astronomical instruments.

Contribution

The authors develop and characterize a simple, inexpensive technique for producing phase plates that mimic atmospheric turbulence for adaptive optics calibration.

Findings

Achieved r0 values of 0.2 - 1.2 mm with Kolmogorov statistics.

Successfully used in multiple AO systems including Gemini Planet Imager.

Method is effective, low-cost, and now distributed to the AO community.

Abstract

The ability to simulate atmospheric turbulence in the lab is a crucial part of testing and developing astronomical adaptive optics technology. We report on the development of a technique for creating phase plates, which involves the strategic application of clear acrylic paint onto a transparent substrate. Results of interferometric characterization of these plates is described and compared to Kolmogorov statistics. The range of r0 (Fried's parameter) achieved thus far is 0.2 - 1.2 mm, with a Kolmogorov power law. These phase plates have been successfully used by the lab for Adaptive Optics at University of California, Santa Cruz, in the Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics testbed, as part of the Villages (Visible Light Laser Guidestar Experiments) calibration system, and during integration and testing of the Gemini Planet Imager. This method has proven to be an effective and low cost means to simulate turbulence. We are now distributing the plates to other members of the AO community.