Making adaptive optics available to all: a concept for 1m class telescopes

International audienceAdaptive optics is an advanced technique developed for large telescopes. It turns out to be challenging for smaller telescopes (0.5~2m) due to the small isoplanatic angle, small subapertures and high correction speeds needed at visible wavelengths, requiring bright stars for guiding, severely limiting the sky coverage. The motivation to develop compact and robust AO system for small telescopes is twofold: On the one hand, schools and universities often have access to small telescopes as part of their education programs. Also, researchers in countries with fewer resources could also benefit from well-engineered and reliable adaptive optics on smaller telescopes for research and education purposes. On the other hand, amateur astronomers and enthusiasts want improved image quality for visual observation and astrophotography. Implementing readily accessible adaptive optics in astronomy clubs would also likely have a significant impact on citizen science