Adaptive optics (AO) was originally developed to correct aberrations caused by atmospheric turbulence in monochromatic imaging and laser communication systems. By integrating a liquid crystal spatial light modulator (SLM), wavefront distortions can be precisely corrected, restoring diffraction-limited image quality.

Recent advancements have extended these techniques to biological imaging, where scattering and turbidity pose challenges in deep tissue imaging. In STED microscopy and multi-photon imaging, SLMs pre-correct wavefront distortions to preserve the structure of excitation and depletion sources, significantly enhancing resolution and imaging depth. This breakthrough enables more accurate visualization of cellular structures and neural networks, advancing research in biophotonics, neuroscience, and biomedical imaging.

Keywords: adaptive optics, spatial light modulator, deep tissue imaging, STED microscopy, multi-photon imaging, wavefront correction, laser communication, diffraction-limited imaging, biological imaging, turbulence compensation.