An optimized amplitude-weighting wavefront correction algorithm in laser systems

An optimized amplitude-weighting wavefront correction algorithm is proposed. Conventional correction algorithms do not optimize the Strehl ratio when the amplitude is non-uniform. The new algorithm yields an amplitude-weighted wavefront, aimed at reducing the variance of the weighted wavefront, instead of the variance of the wavefront as in conventional algorithms. The analytical equations explain how the weighted wavefront directly influences the Strehl ratio when the amplitude is non-uniform. The simulation results verify that the amplitude-weighting wavefront correction algorithm optimizes the Strehl ratio effectively in laser systems with Gaussian amplitudes. The new algorithm can improve the beam quality in laser systems compared with that attainable using conventional algorithms. (paper)