Feature issue introduction: applications of adaptive optics.

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Applied Optics
• Biomedical Optics

Background:

• Adaptive optics (AO) is a technology that corrects optical aberrations in real-time.
• The 2020 Imaging and Applied Optics Congress highlighted advancements in AO.
• AO techniques are crucial for improving image quality in various scientific fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a basic introduction to the principles of adaptive optics.
• To summarize recent developments and applications of AO across diverse domains.
• To offer an overview of the multidisciplinary articles featured in this special issue.

Main Methods:

• Review of peer-reviewed articles presented at the 2020 Imaging and Applied Optics Congress.
• Synthesis of information on adaptive optics development and implementation.
• Categorization of applications across atmospheric, biological, and optical communication fields.

Main Results:

• Adaptive optics has broad applicability, including atmospheric correction, ophthalmology, vision science, microscopy, optical communications, and beam control.
• Significant progress has been made in the development and practical use of AO systems.
• The reviewed articles showcase the versatility and impact of AO across scientific disciplines.

Conclusions:

• Adaptive optics is a transformative technology with wide-ranging scientific and technological implications.
• Continued research and development in AO promise further innovations and enhanced capabilities.
• This feature issue highlights the dynamic and multidisciplinary nature of adaptive optics research.