Comprehensive characterization of binoculars and spotting scopes
Telescopic sights, spotting scopes and binoculars for hunting and nature observation use optical systems that are subject to special technical requirements due to their particular purposes. The measurement of the optical quality of these afocal optics is usually carried out in a double pass configuration. This enables high accuracy in the lambda/20 peak-to-valley range and easy referencing.
The live measurement of the wavefront, typically at an evaluation rate of 10 Hz, enables smooth alignment and fast characterization of the optical system at different zoom levels. In addition to the Zernike analysis and PSF/MTF calculation, measurements at field points are also possible.
With binoculars, both channels can be checked in parallel and aligned to each other (binocularity) – for best alignment results.
Accurate inspection of eyepieces and lens
The measurement of the wavefront aberrations on the axis and at field points provides precise knowledge of the imaging properties of the inspected lens assembly. In addition, chromatic or polarization effects can be analyzed, and the focal length or field curvature determined.
Compared to classic MTF measurements, knowledge of the wavefront facilitates the identification of possible causes of errors, and provides considerably better options for comparison with simulation data.
Read more in our AppNote on bincoular wavefront testing.
Our solution for the inspection of sports optics
Systems and modules of the SHSInspect family measure the transmitted wavefront, PSF and MTF. Moreover, they provide information on chromatic aberrations, focal length and polarization effects and enable measurements at field points.
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