Calibration of a deformable mirror and Strehl ratio measurements by use of phase diversity

Calibration experiments with a bimorph mirror are presented. Phase-diversity wave-front sensing is used for measuring the control matrix, nulling wave-front errors in the optical setup, including the mirror, and measuring Strehl ratios and residual higher-order aberrations. The Strehl ratio of the calibrated system is measured to be 0.975, corresponding to 1/40 wave rms in the residual wave front. The conclusion is that a phase-diversity wave-front sensor is easier to install and use than interferometers and can replace them in optical setups for testing adaptive optics systems.