This hand book is concerned with optical imaging - from simple pinhole cameras to complex imaging systems. It spans the range all the way from optical physics to technical optics. Based on ray- and wave-optical approaches complemented by principles of Fourier optics, the book discusses the process of imaging from the beginning until image capture where, in particular, the different topics are well integrated with each other. Different imaging systems and sensors are reviewed as well as lenses and aberrations, image intensification and processing. The second and enlarged edition has been updated by actual developments and complemented by the topic of smart phone camera photography. The latter plays an important role today in the field of optical imaging and represents a fully integrated optical system with potential for further new developments. For physicists, natural scientists, engineers, photographers and microscopists on one side and students of physics, natural sciences or engineering in general on the other side, the books provides an introduction into the complex field of optical imaging. For all of them with practical experience the book conveys a deeper insight into the intricacies and quality assessment of their daily used devices.

Ulrich Teubner and Hans Brückner, HS Emden-Leer, Germany.