Design optimization and lab demonstration of ZELDA: a Zernike sensor for near-coronagraph quasi-static measurements
Résumé
The exoplanet direct imagers Gemini/GPI and VLT/SPHERE are built around extreme adaptive optics (ExAO) to correct the atmospheric turbulence and the aberrations associated with the optical surfaces. However, additional strategies are necessary to correct the non-common path aberrations (NCPA) between the ExAO and science paths that can limit the instrument contrast performance. To perform an adequate calibration, we have developed ZELDA, a Zernike sensor to achieve NCPA measurements with nanometric accuracy. We report the results of a new design analysis that maximizes the dynamic range, and from laboratory demonstrations on the LAM high-contrast testbed and on VLT/SPHERE during its integration.