2.71 | Spring 2009 | Undergraduate, Graduate

Optics

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to optical science with elementary engineering applications. Topics covered in geometrical optics include: ray-tracing, aberrations, lens design, apertures and stops, radiometry and photometry. Topics covered in wave optics include: basic electrodynamics, polarization, interference, …
This course provides an introduction to optical science with elementary engineering applications. Topics covered in geometrical optics include: ray-tracing, aberrations, lens design, apertures and stops, radiometry and photometry. Topics covered in wave optics include: basic electrodynamics, polarization, interference, wave-guiding, Fresnel and Fraunhofer diffraction, image formation, resolution, space-bandwidth product. Analytical and numerical tools used in optical design are emphasized. Graduate students are required to complete assignments with stronger analytical content, and an advanced design project.
Learning Resource Types
Lecture Videos
Problem Sets with Solutions
Exams with Solutions
Projects with Examples
Lecture Notes
Light rays are traced from the object, through two lens-air interfaces, to create the inverted image on the far side of the lens. The first and second focal points and chief ray are all labeled at their intersection with the ground plane.
Imaging condition: ray-tracing. (Image by Prof. George Barbastathis.)