Paraxial propagation of astigmatic wavefronts in optical systems by an augmented stepalong method for vergences.
OBJECTIVE
The propagation of astigmatic wavefronts through astigmatic optical systems is reconsidered in the wavefront perspective.


METHODS
The stepalong method for vergences, described by 2x2 matrices, is applied and augmented to produce off-axis information like the magnification. This so-called augmented stepalong method (ASAM) is derived by applying the paraxial propagation of astigmatic wavefronts to tilted wavefronts as well.


RESULTS
The features of the ASAM are discussed for a single surface, a thick lens, and a general system.


CONCLUSIONS
The ASAM provides all necessary information to describe a centered astigmatic optical system in paraxial approximation.
Acosta
Eva
E
Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
Blendowske
Ralf
R
D001251:Astigmatism / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy*; D003290:Convergence, Ocular; D003315:Cornea / Q000503:physiopathology*; D019781:Corneal Topography; D005139:Eyeglasses; D006801:Humans; D008027:Light; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D055095:Optics and Photonics