Small-format CCD detectors are well suited to wave front sensing appli
cations. The prototype wave front sensor described here is based on a
low-noise frame transfer 64 x 64 device with a DSP56002-based controll
er. The subaperture patterns necessary for curvature sensing are forme
d by extensive serial register binning. The reduced number of pixels a
llows rapid frame rates with low readout noise. The CCD is thermoelect
rically cooled to minimize dark current. Versatility is achieved by ha
ving the serial binning pattern and the number of subapertures under s
oftware control.