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Title

Derivation of Aberration Coefficients for Single-Element Plane-Symmetric Reflecting Systems using Mathematica
Authors

W. McKinney
C. Palmer
Journal / Anthology

Proceedings of the International Society of Optical Engineering
Year: 1997
Page range: 97-104
Description

The definition of the generalized optical path function for a grating or mirror with a single plane of symmetry is reviewed. The generalized optical path function is then expanded in a series of wavefront aberration terms using only a few lines of code in the Mathematica scientific programming environment. the use of the algebraic capabilities of the Mathematica environment allows straightforward calculation of aberration coefficients that would normally require considerable effort if undertaken by paper and pencil. In addition, the derivation can be carried out to higher order aberration terms, limited only by the capabilities of the computer platform used.
Subject

*Science > Physics > Optics