The Advanced Instrumentation and Technology Centre (AITC) at the ANU Mt Stromlo Observatory has a world-class team of optical scientists and engineers working on the Giant Magellan Telescope project and other advanced astronomical instruments. Drawing on the expertise at the AITC, and the experience of international experts Prof Dr Herbert Gross (Friedrich-Schiller University, Germany) and Dr Beate Böhme (Carl Zeiss), the AITC is offering an intensive Optical Design Course using Zemax.

The seminar is designed for engineers, physicists and technicians who want to improve their knowledge and expertise in optics and optical design. The course is relevant to practitioners in a broad range of fields including: astronomy, telecommunications, illumination, metrology, spectroscopy, medicine, military technology, laser material processing, biophotonics, agriculture and robotics. Special knowledge of Zemax isn’t required but a basic knowledge of technical optics is assumed.

The main focus of the course is the layout and optimization of optical imaging systems using the optical design software Zemax. The course will be led by Prof Dr Herbert Gross, Dr Beate Böhme and Dr Kristina Uhlendorf, who are each specialists in optical design and optical physical simulation, and have experience in a broad range of applications.

After completing this course you will be able to:

• analyse optical systems
• understand and apply the main correction principles in optical design
• understand the importance of simulation of optical systems to ensure functionality
• understand tolerancing for manufacturing and cost efficiency

Program

Day 1: Introduction to Optical Design

• Fundamental notations
• Paraxial Systems
• Basic handling Zemax

Day 2-3: Basic Optical Design

• Primary aberrations and principles of correction
• Optimization
• Image quality criteria
• Optical systems (Part I)
• Tolerancing
• Advanced handling Zemax (Macros, Multiconfigurations) 

Day 4: Advanced Optical Design

• Advanced aberration theory
• Optical Systems (Part II)
• Special components (Freeform surfaces, diffractive surfaces)
• Ghost and stray-light
• Image Simulation

Concept

• Work-related training and teaching by highly qualified and experienced lecturers.
• Well-balanced mix of theory and practice.
• Opportunity to apply your new knowledge and skills to practical examples relevant to your own field.
• The lecturers will be available for discussion. You are invited to bring own optical design tasks and problems to discuss with the lecturers.