Wavefront sensor prototype for industrial applications based on a three-level phase grating

The wavefront sensor is a key component in applications such as adaptive optics, atmospheric turbulence analysis, and flow visualization. A prototype achromatic three-wave lateral-shearing interferometer is described. It is adapted to low-light-level conditions and enables high spatial resolution of the analyzed wavefront. It is essentially based on the use of a specific three-level phase grating.