Extended wavefront sensing with novel diversity functions

Generalized Phase Diversity (GPD) is a phase retrieval algorithm which requires a pair of intensity images. These are created by applying equal and opposite diversity phase to the input wavefront. Unlike traditional phase diversity methods GPD is not limited to the use of defocus as the applied diversity phase. The conditions that a suitable diversity function must satisfy for use in a null sensor were presented at the 4th IWAOIM. Following our recent development of a small angle solution to the inverse problem, in this paper the GPD method will be extended to use as a full wavefront sensor. This method has a wide range of applications, including laser beam shaping, analysis of segmented optics, and metrology. Results will be presented to show the versatility and accuracy of this novel wavefront sensing method.