Principles and Applications of Fourier Optics

A staple of optical design and analysis for over 50 years, Fourier optics is a combination of the mathematical tools of Fourier analysis with the theory of linear systems developed in electrical engineering. Through this synthesis, classical problems in light propagation, diffraction, and image formation can be modeled and analysed. In this text, Robert Tyson presents the fundamentals of Fourier optics with sufficient detail to educate the reader, typically an advanced student or working scientist or engineer, to the level of applying the knowledge to a specific set of design or analysis problems. Instead of presenting complex multipage proofs of the underlying theory, the key results are presented with an explanation of the physical meaning and accompanied by appropriate literature references. The last half of the book explores some of the many and varied modern applications, including in imaging, interferometry, tomography, optical testing methods, pattern recognition, holography, data processing, encoding and encryption. Readers of this book will acquire an understanding of the principles and fundamentals to enable them to appreciate the range of applications and be able to competently start using Fourier optics in their research or industrial work.