Geometric Optics: Theory and Design of Astronomical Optical Systems Using Mathematica (R)

This book-unique in the literature-provides readers with the mathematical background needed to design many of the optical combinations that are used in astronomical telescopes and cameras. The results presented in the work were obtained by using a different approach to third-order aberration theory as well as the extensive use of the software package Mathematica (R). Replete with workout examples and exercises, Geometric Optics is an excellent reference for advanced graduate students, researchers, and practitioners in applied mathematics, engineering, astronomy, and astronomical optics. The work may be used as a supplementary textbook for graduate-level courses in astronomical optics, optical design, optical engineering, programming with Mathematica, or geometric optics.

Review: "This is a comprehensive book on a variety of phenomena and basic elements of geometric optics with application in constructing astronomical optical telescopes. ... The clearly written text ... is a useful reference not only for professional researchers in the field of geometrical optics but can also be interesting to graduate students and teachers at college level." (Vladimir Cadez, zbMATH 1364.78004, 2017)

Fermat's Principle and General Considerations.- Gaussian Optics.- Fermat's Principle and Third-Order Aberrations.- About Higher-Order Aberrations.- Newtonian and Cassegrain Telescopes.- Cameras for Astronomy.- Compound Cassegrain Telescopes.- Doubles and Triplets.- Other Optical Combinations.- Fermat's Principle and Wave Fronts.- Hamiltonian Optics.- Principal Functions and Primary Aberrations.- Introduction to Optics in Anisotropic Media Media.- Appendix A: First-Order PDE.- Appendix B: Symplectic Vector Spaces.