10762 - Astronomical Optics

Learning outcomes

Provide the student with a basic knowledge of geometrical and wave optics, with specific application to astronomical instrumentation and observations. Provide the student with the capability of evaluating the performances of simple optical systems.

Course contents

• Light and electromagnetic radiation.
• Geometrical optics: reflection, refraction, absorption, dispersion. Atmospheric absorption and dispersion.
• Thin lenses. Mirrors. Image formation.
• Optical aberrations: chromatic, spherical, astigmatism, coma, distortion.
• Optical instruments: eye, loupe, spyglass, microscope.
• Telescopes: scale, field, luminosity. Newtonian, Cassegrain, Gregorian, Schmidt telescopes.
• Introduction to the Fourier Tranform.
• Wave optics, Huygens-Fresnel principle. Interference and diffraction.
• Resolution of an optical system. PSF. Sampling.
• Light polarization.
• The "Seeing".
• Modern X-ray, optical, radio- telescopes on earth and in space (introductory notes).
• Optical lab.:Image formation. Michelson interferometer. 
  

Readings/Bibliography

Suggested:
Eugene Hecht - Optics - Addison Wesley. Very good reference textbook, more extended than the course.

Or: Halliday, Resnick e Krane, Physics II, Wiley.

• PDF of presentations used in the lectures
• Selection of problems
• instruction for the lab activity

are also available on IOL.

Teaching methods

Mostly conventional lectures on theory, integrated by solution of problems and simple experiments. Further exercises are suggested to the students for personal training.

Optical lab (in presence): Assembly of optical systems on bench; related measurements (lenses, mirror, interference, diffraction).

Assessment methods

• evaluation of the lab activity report;
• final oral exam.

Teaching tools

Blackboard, videoprojector. TEAMS virtual classroom. Optical laboratory.

Office hours

See the website of Carmela Lardo

See the website of Gabriele Umbriaco

See the website of Bruno Marano