Applications

Wavefront Sensing Applications

At Imagine Optic, we pioneer precision in wavefront sensing applications. For more than 30 years, our Shack–Hartmann wavefront sensors and adaptive optics systems have empowered scientists and engineers to measure, analyze, and correct optical aberrations with unmatched accuracy and reliability.

From visible and SWIR metrology to adaptive optics for microscopy and extreme ultraviolet (XEUV) metrology, our technologies support a wide range of optical systems — from laboratory research setups to industrial and space-grade instruments.

Explore our six key application areas below to discover how wavefront sensing enables optical performance optimization across every wavelength.

1. Visible & NIR Optical Metrology

Our wavefront sensing applications in the visible and near-infrared range are designed for quantifying optical aberrations, characterizing complex optics, and verifying compliance with system specifications.
With HASO wavefront sensors, users can align optical systems, diagnose laser beams, and ensure peak imaging quality. Thanks to embedded factory calibration and insensitivity to vibrations, Imagine Optic solutions deliver absolute, repeatable measurements ideal for optical testing, laser alignment, and precision metrology.

Applications include: optical component characterization, system alignment, beam diagnostics, and imaging quality prediction.

2. SWIR Optical Metrology

Our SWIR (Short-Wave Infrared) wavefront sensors extend precise metrology capabilities to the infrared domain. Designed for free-space communication, quantum cryptography, LIDAR, and automotive applications, these sensors combine high spatial resolution with robust calibration for reliable performance under varying illumination conditions.
They enable engineers to quantify wavelength-dependent aberrations, align complex optics, and measure mid-spatial frequency (MSF) errors, ensuring accurate system performance across multiple wavelengths.

Best for: SWIR metrology, laser system testing, adaptive optics, and wavelength-dependent performance analysis.

3. Laser Metrology & Adaptive Optics

In laser applications, wavefront sensing plays a central role in beam characterization, alignment, and optimization.
Imagine Optic’s HASO sensors and adaptive optics modules allow real-time diagnosis and correction of beam distortions, enabling users to maintain beam quality, collimation, and pointing stability.
Whether for industrial lasers, defense systems, or research facilities, our technology ensures optimal focus and performance, even under changing environmental conditions.

Applications include: laser beam profiling, pointing stability control, and adaptive wavefront correction.

4. Adaptive Optics for Microscopy 

Our AOKit Bio brings the power of adaptive optics and wavefront sensing into advanced microscopy. Compatible with confocal, multiphoton, light sheet, STED, and SIM modalities, AOKit Bio improves image quality by compensating for sample-induced aberrations.
By combining HASO wavefront sensors, deformable mirrors, and WaveTune software, this solution allows researchers to achieve diffraction-limited resolution in live-cell and deep-tissue imaging.

Best for: high-resolution microscopy, fluorescence imaging, optical tweezers, and research instrumentation.

5. XEUV & X-Ray Metrology

For extreme ultraviolet (XEUV) and X-ray applications, Imagine Optic provides high-resolution wavefront sensing solutions like the HASO HXR, enabling real-time beamline alignment, phase imaging, and focusing optimization.
These systems are used in synchrotron beamlines and X-FEL facilities to align and characterize complex optical assemblies such as Kirkpatrick–Baez (KB) or toroidal mirrors.
With live, single-shot measurements, our sensors ensure precision in even the most demanding environments.

Best for: synchrotron beamline metrology, X-FEL alignment, and nanostructure imaging.

6. Optical Metrology & Adaptive Optics Software Wavefront Sensing Applications 

Complementing our hardware portfolio, Imagine Optic’s WaveTune and WaveKit software provide a powerful interface for wavefront analysis, correction, and system integration.
These tools allow users to control deformable mirrors, analyze wavefront data, and automate alignment through intuitive workflows — supporting both laboratory and industrial setups.

Applications include: real-time wavefront control, AO loop optimization, and system simulation.

Why Choose Imagine Optic for Wavefront Sensing Applications?

• Over 30 years of innovation in optical metrology and adaptive optics

• Proven Shack–Hartmann technology with absolute calibration

• Solutions covering Visible, NIR, SWIR, X-EUV, and microscopy domains

• Robust, vibration-insensitive designs ensuring stability in any environment

• Seamless integration of hardware and software for complete system control