Simulations of Four Types of Optical Aberrations using Zernik Polynomials

Abstract

In this paper, a computer simulation is implemented to generate of an optical aberration by means of Zernike polynomials. Defocus, astigmatism, coma, and spherical Zernike aberrations were simulated in a subroutine using MATLAB function and applied as a phase error in the aperture function of an imaging system. The studying demonstrated that the Point Spread Function (PSF) and Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) have been affected by these optical aberrations. Areas under MTF for different radii of the aperture of imaging system have been computed to assess the quality and efficiency of optical imaging systems. Phase conjugation of these types aberration has been utilized in order to correct a distorted wavefront. The results showed that the largest effect on the PSF and MTF is due to the contribution of the third type coma aberrated wavefront.