The Use Of Image Quality Criteria In Designing A Diffraction Limited Large Space Telescope

William B. Wetherell

doi:10.1117/12.953525

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1 September 1972 The Use Of Image Quality Criteria In Designing A Diffraction Limited Large Space Telescope

William B. Wetherell

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Proceedings Volume 0028, Instrumentation in Astronomy I; (1972) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.953525
Event: Instrumentation in Astronomy, 1972, Tucson, United States

Abstract

Marechal's criterion for diffraction limited performance, based on a Strehl definition of 0.80, is extended to include the effects of image motion and a central obstruction, as well as wavefront error. The properties of the extended Marechal criterion are studied to show how it can be used to establish tolerable levels of wavefront error and image motion, and the maximum permissible value for the central obstruction diameter ratio. The limitations of Marechal's criterion are examined by comparing it briefly to other image quality criteria. The properties of the Ritchey Chretien telescope are described in a form permitting analysis of its image-forming characteristics. The manner in which the choice of telescope design parameters can influence the amounts of wavefront error and image motion and the size of the central obstruction is described. These properties are then used in conjunction with tolerance levels established using Marechal's criterion to show how an image quality criterion can limit the choice of telescope design parameters. Tentative boundary diagrams are presented indicating the probable range of design parameters that can be used for the large space telescope, based on the use of Marechal's criterion.

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William B. Wetherell "The Use Of Image Quality Criteria In Designing A Diffraction Limited Large Space Telescope", Proc. SPIE 0028, Instrumentation in Astronomy I, (1 September 1972); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.953525

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