Variable zoom system with aberration correction capability

We describe experiments conducted with two deformable mirrors (DMs) at fixed locations in an optical microscope imaging system. In this configuration, the DM shapes are controlled to provide 2.5x zoom capability, to allow dynamic focus control and to compensate for aberrations of the fixed optical components. Zoom is achieved by simultaneously adjusting focal lengths of the two DMs, which are inserted between an infinity-corrected microscope objective and a tube lens. Image quality is measured using contrast modulation, and performance of the system is quantified, demonstrating an improved point spread function in the adaptively compensated system.