Diffraction and imaging are central topics in many modern and scientific fields.
Fourier analysis and sythesis techniques are a unifying theme throughout this subject
matter. For example, many modern imaging techniques have evolved through
research and development with the Fourier methods.
This textbook has its origins in courses, research, and development projects
spanning a period of more than 30 years. It was a pleasant experience to observe
over the years how the topics relevant to this book evolved and became more
significant as the technology progressed. The topics involved are many and an highly
multidisciplinary.
Even though Fourier theory is central to understanding, it needs to be supplemented
with many other topics such as linear system theory, optimization, numerical methods,
imaging theory, and signal and image processing. The implementation issues and
materials of fabrication also need to be coupled with the theory. Consequently, it is
difficult to characterize this field in simple terms. Increasingly, progress in technology
makes it of central significance, resulting in a need to introduce courses, which cover
the major topics together of both science and technology. There is also a need to help
students understand the significance of such courses to prepare for modern technology.
This book can be used as a textbook in courses emphasizing a number of the
topics involved at both senior and graduate levels. There is room for designing
several one-quarter or one-semester courses based on the topics covered.