Null test of large convex aspheres by subaperture stitching with replaceable holograms

Abstract

Null test is preferred for measuring surface error of aspheres. However for large convex aspheres, it is challenging to fabricate larger null optics. Subaperture stitching is hence introduced but requires different null optics for subapertures of different off-axis distances. It gets easier by using replaceable computer generated holograms (CGHs). In this paper, a convex high-order even asphere is taken as an example and multiple CGHs are designed for null test of different subapertures. The same transmission flat and tilt carrier are used to facilitate alignment of CGHs. Disturbance orders of diffraction are confirmed to be separated by the tilt carrier without ghost interference. A configuration-based stitching algorithm is applied to successfully retrieve the full aperture surface error. The CGH substrate error is calibrated out before stitching optimization by measuring its transmitted wavefront with a high precision reference flat. Finally, the stitching result is verified by through-the-back null test of the same asphere.