Millimeter-wave adaptive optics: demonstrating closed-loop correction for lowest Zernike modes

Abstract

We report on a five-element prototype wavefront sensor for millimeter-wave adaptive optics (MAO), enabling closed-loop correction of tip-tilt and defocus via secondary mirror (M2) displacement. MAO is essential for large ground-based millimeter/submillimeter telescopes to maintain surface accuracy under wind and thermal distortions. Our sensor, based on radio interferometry, measures excess path lengths from the primary mirror to a focal-plane receiver. A previous two-element prototype achieved < 10μm accuracy at the Nobeyama 45m telescope. The new five-element system, operating at 20GHz, was installed on the same telescope. A “Moon-edge” experiment confirmed detection of wavefront gradients through strong correlation with continuum flux. Implementing a PI controller closed the sensor–M2 loop, stably suppressing the lowest Zernike modes. This approach establishes a foundation for metrology in future large-aperture submillimeter facilities such as AtLAST/LST.