Characterize discrete SLM phase-mask performance near central discontinuities

Characterize the performance of discrete focal-plane phase-mask patterns generated by liquid-crystal-on-silicon spatial light modulators, particularly near the central phase discontinuity of focal-plane phase-mask coronagraphs.

Background

The paper analyzes active focal-plane phase-mask coronagraphy implemented with pixelated devices, especially liquid-crystal-on-silicon spatial light modulators (SLMs). Discretization introduces finite spatial sampling, phase quantization, and other device-level effects that can distort ideal coronagraphic phase patterns.

The central phase discontinuity or singularity is especially important for focal-plane phase-mask designs such as vortices and quadrant masks. Because the discrete SLM pixel grid cannot represent the continuous or abrupt phase structure perfectly at this location, residual stellar leakage and degraded coronagraphic performance may result. The paper identifies a detailed assessment of this behavior as unresolved.

References

The performance of the discrete pattern generated by the SLM remains an open topic, particularly near the central phase discontinuity of most FPM coronagraphs.

— Active focal plane phase mask coronagraphy with a discrete pixelated device: I. Study of the theoretical performance trade space  (2609.05208 - Lin et al., 4 Sep 2026) in Section 1, Introduction