Focal-plane wavefront control for high-contrast imaging using algorithmic differentiation

This work is aimed at developing a new class of computationally-efficient algorithms for high-order wavefront control in coronagraphic imaging instruments. Whereas current state-of-the-art methods rely on the calculation and manipulation of a large control matrix, our approach instead uses nonlinear optimization in tandem with algorithmic differentiation, a modern technique for calculating derivatives of complicated mathematical functions. Our work focuses on laboratory demonstrations of our technique, along with a related approach for automatically calibrating the computer model used by the control algorithm, which helps to improve its ultimate performance.

Two of the four mission concepts investigated for the Astro2020 Decadal Survey- LUVOIR and HabEx- are focused on direct imaging of Earth-like exoplanets and circumstellar dust clouds. Achieving this scientific goal requires unprecedented optical precision, and both missions will rely critically on closed-loop control of optical aberrations using deformable mirrors. Our work provides a more computationally-efficient approach to this critical task than the current state of the art, which opens up the possibility of running the wavefront control algorithms using the flight computer onboard the spacecraft, rather than relying on continuous communication with a ground station.

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