Field Guide to

Recent advancements in microfabrication technologies and the development of powerful simulation tools have led to a significant expansion of diffractive optics and diffractive optical components. Instrument developers can choose from a broad range of diffractive optics elements to complement refractive and reflective components in achieving a desired control of the optical field.

The process of designing lenses is both an art and a science. While advancements in the field over the past two centuries have done much to transform it from the former category to the latter, much of the lens design process remains encapsulated in the experience and knowledge of industry veterans.

This second edition is written to clarify and summarize the theoretical principles of infrared technology. It is intended as a reference for the practicing engineer and/or scientist who requires effective practical information to design, build, and/or test infrared equipment in a wide variety of applications.