Abstract
We examine the characteristics of linear astigmatism in a nonaxially symmetric optical system. The conventional view of interpreting linear astigmatism aberration using P and N focal surfaces is revisited. A perspective to explain and visualize the behavior of linear astigmatism is provided using the concept of field curves. Methods of controlling linear astigmatism are discussed, including a ray-tracing method using pupil imaging. Confocal mirror designs free from linear astigmatism are also discussed.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Article number | 051206 |
| Journal | Optical Engineering |
| Volume | 60 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - May 1 2021 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- confocal mirror design
- field curve
- freeform surfaces
- linear astigmatism
- pupil aberrations
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
- General Engineering