Shuttered wavefront sensors are devices used in optical systems to measure the wavefront of light. They help in assessing how light waves are distorted as they pass through different media or optical components. By capturing the wavefront data, these sensors enable adjustments to improve image quality in applications like telescopes and microscopes. These sensors operate by using a shutter mechanism that temporarily blocks light, allowing for precise measurements of the wavefront at specific intervals. This technique enhances the accuracy of wavefront reconstruction, making it valuable in fields such as astronomy and adaptive optics, where clarity and detail are crucial.