Abstract

From the time of the Herschelian telescope, optical scientists have recognized that use can sometimes be made of decentered, nonrotational optical surfaces to achieve limited advantages and often practical convenience. Enough background is given to clarify recent applications of generalized nonrotational surfaces to permit convenient focusing and power changes in small cameras. In particular, attention is given to design controls that permit utilization of deformed surfaces over increased apertures and fields of view. Advances in the state of the art are discussed and attention given to limitations presently encountered.

© 1985 Optical Society of America