Adaptive optics imaging of low and intermediate redshift quasars

We present the results of adaptive-optics imaging in the H and K bands of 1 2 low and intermediate redshift (z<0.6) quasars using the PUEO system mount ed on the Canada-France-Hawaii telescope. Five quasars are radio-quiet and seven are radio-loud. The images, obtained under poor seeing conditions, an d with the QSOs (m(V)>15.0) themselves as reference for the correction, hav e typical spatial resolution of FWHM <similar to> 0.3 arcsec before deconvo lution. The deconvolved H-band image of PG 1700+514 has a spatial resolutio n of 0.16 arcsec and reveals a wealth of details on the companion and the h ost-galaxy. Four out of the twelve quasars have close companions and obviou s signs of interactions. The two-dimensional images of three of the host-ga laxies unambiguously reveal bars and spiral arms. The morphology of the oth er objects are difficult to determine from one dimensional surface brightne ss profile and deeper images are needed. Analysis of mock data shows that e lliptical galaxies are always recognized as such, whereas disk hosts can be missed for small disk scale lengths and large QSO contributions.