Wavefront-error evaluation by mathematical analysis of experimental Foucault-test data

Computer Science – Numerical Analysis

Scientific paper

Rate now

  [ 0.00 ] – not rated yet Voters 0   Comments 0

Details

8

Diffraction Patterns, Error Analysis, Interferometry, Numerical Analysis, Paraboloid Mirrors, Wave Fronts, Data Processing, Feasibility Analysis, Instrument Errors, Point Sources, Spaceborne Telescopes, Wave Diffraction

Scientific paper

The diffraction theory of the Foucault test provides an integral formula expressing the complex amplitude and irradiance distribution in the Foucault pattern of a test mirror (lens) as a function of wavefront error. Recent literature presents methods of inverting this formula to express wavefront error in terms of irradiance in the Foucault pattern. The present paper describes a study in which the inversion formulation was applied to photometric Foucault-test measurements on a nearly diffraction-limited mirror to determine wavefront errors for direct comparison with ones determined from scatter-plate interferometer measurements. The results affirm the practicability of the Foucault test for quantitative wavefront analysis of very small errors, and they reveal the fallacy of the prevalent belief that the test is limited to qualitative use only. Implications of the results with regard to optical testing and the potential use of the Foucault test for wavefront analysis in orbital space telescopes are discussed.

No associations

LandOfFree

Say what you really think

Search LandOfFree.com for scientists and scientific papers. Rate them and share your experience with other people.

Rating

Wavefront-error evaluation by mathematical analysis of experimental Foucault-test data does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Wavefront-error evaluation by mathematical analysis of experimental Foucault-test data, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Wavefront-error evaluation by mathematical analysis of experimental Foucault-test data will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

     

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-909636

  Search
All data on this website is collected from public sources. Our data reflects the most accurate information available at the time of publication.