Research Network for Adaptive Optics
National Benefit
|
The Research Network for Adaptive Optics will bring together active
researchers with expertise in adaptive optics to share their knowledge
and provide a critical mass of researchers for tackling significant
problems in astronomy, ophthalmology and vision science, laser
applications, and defence. The Research Network for Adaptive Optics
will foster interest and activity in an area of technology that has
developed rapidly over the last decade. It will provide a focus for
this diverse effort and will provide a critical mass of researchers in
a key technology area that already has commercial participation within
Australia.
In the area of astronomy, it will enable Australia to participate along side other great astronomical nations of the world in the global development of the next generation of Extremely Large Telescopes. This will ensure Australia's continuing prominence in astronomy worldwide and will highlight Australia's technological expertise to the world. The Research Network for Adaptive Optics fits within the Designated National Research Priority of Promoting and Maintaining Good Health. Research into the organisation and function of the retina, the optical and neural limits of human vision, and the early diagnosis of eye diseases are fundamental to maintaining productivity in an aging Australian population. Clinical adaptive optics corrected confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopes could permit routine retinal screening of the population. The Research Network for Adaptive Optics falls within the Designated National Research Priority of Frontier Technologies for Building and Transforming Australian Industries. Australia needs to strengthen its high-tech industry and ensure that the benefits of Australian innovation are captured locally. Adaptive optics is a frontier technology that is revolutionizing optical sciences and industry world-wide. Two Australian companies are already participating in the Research Network for Adaptive Optics. A goal of the Newtork will be to involve other Australian businesses in the Network and to inform Australian industry generally of potential business opportunities in this area. Fundamental research into adaptive optics will enhance Australia's international reputation and may stimulate new world-class industries of the fututre. The Research Network for Adaptive Optics also falls within the Designated National Research Priority of Safeguarding Australia. Adaptive optics has its roots in military applications in the USA associated with the missile defence system. Adaptive optics is clearly relevant to our continuing involvement in the Joint Strike Fighter program, and could potentially become relevant to Australia's decision to join the USA missile defence program. |