Adaptive polymer lens for rapid zoom shortwave infrared imaging applications

Abstract. This work demonstrates the use of adaptive polymer lenses (APLs) for short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) applications. First, we present a push-button adaptive optical zoom system for variable magnification with a SWIR focal plane array. We then present a push-button, variable divergence, SWIR laser system for pointing and illumination. Last, we outline a system that combines the two: an SWIR adaptive zoom coupled with an APL-enhanced designator/illuminator. The result would allow a user to toggle between different fields of view (magnification), while optimizing illumination (beam divergence) for each field of view. This could be critical for situational awareness and target identification/designation in tactical applications.