Multi-Frame Blind Deconvolution for Imaging in Daylight and Strong Turbulence Conditions

We describe results from new computational techniques to extend the reach of large ground-based optical telescopes, enabling high resolution imaging of space objects under daylight conditions. Current state-of-the-art systems, even those employing adaptive optics, dramatically underperform in such conditions because of strong turbulence generated by diurnal solar heating of the atmosphere, characterized by a ratio of telescope diameter to Fried parameter as high as 70. Our approach extends previous advances in multi-frame blind deconvolution (MFBD) by exploiting measurements from a wavefront sensor recorded simultaneously with high-cadence image data. We describe early results with the new algorithm which may be used with seeing-limited image data or as an adjunct to partial compensation with adaptive optics to restore imaging to the diffraction limit even under the extreme observing conditions found in daylight.