Adaptive Optics Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Component (Deformable Mirrors, Wavefront Sensors, Control Systems), By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Adaptive Optics Market Size & Trends

“2030 Adaptive Optics market value to reach USD 4.01 billion”

The global adaptive optics market size was estimated at USD 608.8 million and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 31.4% from 2024 to 2030. Key market drivers include the adoption of Adaptive Optics (AO) technology in ophthalmology and retinal imaging and increasing government funding. In addition, advancements in adaptive technology and demand for adaptive technology and demand for adaptive dressings are driving the market growth.

The global adaptive optics market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by several key factors, such as the increasing demand in ophthalmology and retinal imaging, where AO helps reduce optical aberrations and improve imaging of the retina, enabling better diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. The growing prevalence of retinal degenerative diseases is fueling the adoption of AO in ophthalmology.

Advancements in technology and sensor development are also crucial to the growth of the AO market. Improvements in deformable mirrors, wavefront sensors, and control systems are enhancing the performance and reducing the cost of AO systems. For instance, developing advanced deformable mirrors with precise magnetic actuators enables smaller, cheaper, and more complex AO devices. These technological advancements are opening up new opportunities for AO applications beyond ophthalmology.

Beyond ophthalmology, AO is being applied in various emerging industries, including astronomy, microscopy, laser applications, industrial manufacturing, and defense/security. Increased government funding and R&D investments are driving innovation and further adoption of AO systems. For instance, the European Southern Observatory has a dedicated AO department that provides AO observing capabilities to overcome atmospheric turbulence limitations in ordinary telescopes. Government agencies and research institutions provide funding to advance AO technology and explore new applications. As a result, the AO market is expected to continue its strong growth trajectory in the coming years.

Components Insights & Trends

In 2023, wavefront sensors dominated the market, with the segment accounting for a 36.0% market share. These sensors are crucial in splitting light into smaller beams using a range of miniature lenses called lenslets. Among the various types of wavefront sensors, the Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor is the most commonly used due to its simple structure and ease of manufacturing.

The deformable mirrors (wavefront correctors) segment is estimated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 31.5% over the forecast period. This is attributable to their ability to precisely control the incident wavefront by reshaping a reflecting membrane with accurate magnetic actuators. This technology is crucial for AO applications, enabling precise wavefront correction and reducing distortions in light waves.

End-use Insights & Trends

The microscopy segment held the highest market share of 21.8% in 2023. Microscopy is a crucial application for AO, overcoming specimen-induced aberrations to improve resolution, signal intensity, and contrast ratio. This technology enables in vivo deep tissue imaging, corrects optical flaws, and is essential for biomedical research projects. Its affordability compared to high-powered wide-field scanning microscopes drives adoption in this field, making it a vital tool for microscopy applications.

The communications segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 32.4% over the forecast period, driven by rising demand for high-speed and high-capacity data transmission. AO technology improves signal quality in free-space optical systems, compensating for atmospheric distortions. Advancements in laser tech and new optical components further enhance capabilities, making it a key driver for growth and increasing adoption in this segment.

Regional Insights & Trends

The North America adaptive optics market captured the largest revenue share of 47.9% in 2023. Nations such as the U.S. and Canada's adoption of cutting-edge technologies in the medical field are predicted to fuel the market's expansion in the area. Moreover, the increasing studies on AO across various academic and research institutions in the region are expected to contribute to its growth. For instance, the Medical College of Wisconsin is exploring AO through its Advanced Ocular Imaging Program.

U.S. Adaptive Optics Market Trends

The adaptive optics market in the U.S. led the global market in 2023. AO has proven to be highly valuable in the field of medical sciences, particularly in ophthalmology and retinal imaging. Reducing optical aberrations significantly enhances the quality of retinal images and aids in diagnostics. This has led to a surge in demand for AO systems, with companies like Iris AO Inc. offering specialized systems for ophthalmology and retinal imaging.

Europe Adaptive Optics Market Trends

The adaptive optics market in Europe is anticipated to grow significantly over the forecast period. The steady adoption and improvement of AO devices for biomedical applications are key drivers of this growth. For instance, an AO retinal camera was recently developed, which helps analyze the retina more accurately, leading to better diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases.

The adaptive optics market in Germany holds a prominent position in Europe, underpinned by its strong industrial base and commitment to research and development. The growth is driven by the country’s strong industrial base, commitment to research and development, and numerous leading companies, and research institutions specializing in optical technologies. This strong foundation enables Germany to stay at the forefront of AO technology, contributing to the market's overall growth.

The UK adaptive optics market is another crucial player in Europe. The country’s robust healthcare system and emphasis on technological innovation have facilitated the widespread adoption of AO technologies. The high prevalence of inherited retinal diseases in the UK, which can lead to blindness, further drives the demand for advanced solutions like AO.

Asia Pacific Adaptive Optics Market Trends

The adaptive optics market in Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 35.6% during the forecast period. This surge is driven by growing demand for advanced imaging and microscopy technologies in biomedical, astronomical, and industrial manufacturing industries. The region's significant investment in research and development, particularly in China and Japan, is fueling innovation and adopting AO technology.

The Japan adaptive optics market accounted for a significant revenue share of Asia Pacific in 2023 due to its commitment to research and development in astronomy and biomedical imaging. The government's support for cutting-edge technologies and the presence of industry leaders like Iris AO Inc. are key factors driving adoption. Furthermore, Japan's aging population and the need for advanced medical imaging techniques are contributing to the market's growth.

The adaptive optics market in China is growing rapidly, fueled by the country's substantial investments in research and development in astronomy and biomedical imaging. The Chinese government's emphasis on innovation and the presence of leading companies like Imagine Optic SA are driving the adoption of AO technology. Moreover, China's massive population and the demand for advanced medical imaging techniques are significant factors contributing to the market's growth.

Key Adaptive Optics Company Insights

Key market players are forging strategic partnerships through collaborations, distribution agreements, mergers, and acquisitions to develop innovative AO devices and expand their market reach.

• Northrop Grumman is a provider of AO solutions, particularly for military and defense applications. The company's Xinetics division specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of advanced AO products and systems. Northrop Grumman's AO technologies are used in a wide range of applications, including laser systems, imaging, and space-based surveillance.

• Adaptica is an Italian company in the AO industry, concentrating on the development of cutting-edge medical devices for ophthalmology. Its AO technology is integrated into retinal imaging and vision assessment products, allowing for high-resolution imaging and precise diagnosis of various eye disorders.

Recent Developments

• In January 2024, a consortium led by Macquarie University won a tender to design and construct AO for the Gemini North Telescope in Hawaii. The project, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation, aims to remove atmospheric turbulence blur, enabling sharper images and new scientific discoveries.

• In January 2024, Thorlabs licensed Sensirion's patented dual-frequency-comb spectroscopy technology, enabling the development of a mid-infrared sensing platform for environmental and industrial applications.

Adaptive Optics Market Report Scope

Global Adaptive Optics Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2020 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global adaptive optics market report based on component, end use, and region:

• Component Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Deformable Mirrors (Wavefront Correctors)

  • Wavefront Sensors

  • Control System

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Ophthalmology

  • Microscopy

  • Laser Application

  • Manufacturing

  • Communications

  • Military & Defense

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait