Low order adaptive optics on Z-Beamlet using a single actuator deformable mirror

The Z-Beamlet laser at Sandia National Laboratories can perform a full system shot every 3–4 h. This shot rate is limited by thermal aberrations that result from the flashlamp pumped Nd:phosphate amplifier slabs. The lowest order as well as the strongest aberration is of cylindrical shape. Therefore, a single actuator deformable mirror assembly for correction of cylindrical aberration was developed. Mirror performance was modeled using finite element analysis and showed good agreement with derived analytical expressions. Quantitative measurements were performed with an interferometer and thermal lens compensation was achieved in the Z-Beamlet laser system leading to an increased shot rate of one in every 2 h.