Adaptive optics design for high-energy kW-class multi-slab laser amplifier

We demonstrate real-time wavefront correction in a high-energy high-average-power DiPOLE100/Bivoj laser using adaptive optics. A bimorph deformable mirror and Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor reduced wavefront error tenfold and improved the Strehl ratio elevenfold. Design aspects such as deformable mirror actuator geometry, optimal placement, and loop frequency are discussed for integration into next-generation high-energy high-average-power lasers.