Deformable mirrors for all seasons and reasons.

The use of adaptive optics has been increasingly proposed as a solution to a variety of optical phase distortion problems. Deformable (rubber) mirror concepts have utilized numerous design techniques for phase distortion correction. Deformable mirror requirements are reviewed for several applications along with projected requirements to meet the demands of future optical systems. Actuator and mirror design requirements are addressed along with their interrelationship with electronic driver design.