A system for forming virtual beacons usable in wavefront sensing includes a first lens configured to receive light from a target and to output an image towards an input plane. The system also includes a selector positioned at the input plane. The selector includes a transparent portion that allows a portion of the image output by the first lens to pass through the selector to form a virtual beacon. The selector also includes a translucent portion to prevent another portion of the image output by the first lens from passing through the selector.