Abstract
Micro Mirror Arrays (MMAs) are proposed as an applicable technology for adaptive optics applications, allowing correction of distorted wavefronts, for example coming from nonperfect optical systems. This paper details current work, being carried out for ESA, to investigate the use of such MMAs by testing them in a breadboard. Two MMA actuator types are under examination; binary operated tilt mirrors and analogue operated piston mirrors. A deformable membrane mirror will simulate continuous wavefront distortions, such as those that could be expected off a typical 3m class, lightweight, primary mirror of a space telescope. Step functions will also be introduced, as could be expected from a segmented mirror. The amount of correction that the two types of MMA can provide to reduce the aberrations will be examined. The breadboard will incorporate components to test different methods for measuring the wavefront error and feeding back to control the MMA. Coupling of the free space beam into a monomode optical fibre will be demonstrated and will allow comparison of the results for different MMA types and wavefront error detection and control regimes.
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