An analysis and reduction of flare light in optical systems

This dissertation presents a method for designing optical systems with low levels of stray light. The method uses standard techniques for computerized lens design and includes a new set of numerically efficient equations for tracing light fields through optical systems. Analytical techniques for estimating a system's image quality and stray light levels are developed first. The techniques are then linked to a computer optimization routine, and some typical systems are redesigned to reduce stray light and maintain image quality.