Course content

The course will give insight into the physics of light, as well as manipulation of light with lenses and other optical components. The course covers essential physical phenomena related to light: photons, waves, rays, refraction, diffraction, interference, and polarization. The course also covers optics for imaging and for illumination. It introduces characterization and design of composite lens systems, as well as characterization and correction of optical aberrations. Other optical technologies are also introduced: light detectors, image sensors, optical fibers, interferometry, and spectroscopy. The course gives a good basis for understanding optical instruments such as telescope, microscope, camera, and eye. Practical demonstrations and experiments will be a part of the lectures.

Learning outcome

After taking this course, you

  • have a good understanding of the basic physics of light
  • understand the working principles of optical components and systems: lenses, mirrors, prisms and composite lens systems
  • can calculate light throughput and ray propagation in optical systems
  • can design basic lens systems for imaging
  • know the principles of