This is the first volume of a monumental work that will provide a complete treatment of all theoretical aspects of reflecting telescope optics. It addresses all specialists in the field, both within the astronomical community and in industry, and, consequently, particular emphasis is placed on subjects such as practical alignment, test techniques, and maintenance aspects.
Whereas the second volume will concentrate on technical aspects and modern developments, this one is devoted to the theory of reflecting telescope optics and, together with the historical development, it will also prove to be useful to students.
This book has real classic potential.
Rezensionen / Stimmen
From the reviews
"... an unequalled reference for those who have interest in the field ... a unique reference in a superb presentation."
ESO Messenger
"The style reflects the author's hard-won intimacy with the optical design, manufacture, and development of telescopes over several decades, and with his continual, effective communication with physical scientists and industrial technologists . It should be brought to the attention of any serious student in the field . The book is well-produced, with the clear text and illustrations . It should have wide appeal to specialist and student alike ."
The Observatory
From the reviews of the second edition:
"The most valuable feature . is the large number of equations, more than 700 in all and over 500 on aberration theory. To help the reader's understanding of these, the first Appendix gives the meaning of all the symbols used, and where they are defined. . Through its wealth of detail and mathematical rigour, this book can be seen as a modern classic . ." (Roderick Willstrop, The Observatory, Vol. 125 (1184), 2005)
"Part of a two volume set, this 500 plus page hardcover book covers basic design theory for and the historical development of the astronomical reflecting telescope. . This is a 'serious' book on reflecting telescope optics . . It is aimed at serious optical engineers who wish to design telescope optical systems from first principles and gain an understanding of the mathematical theory which applies." (Roger Feasey, Journal of the Auckland Astronomical Society AAS, February, 2005)
"R. N. Wilson's . treatise on Reflecting Telescope Optics has become a classic in its own right. It gives an excellent and complete treatment of the subject, addressing professionals in research and industry as well as students of astronomy and amateur astronomers. . The book is richly illustrated including spot-diagrams analysing special systems in modern form." (Paul Bucher, Optik Vol. 117 (8), 2006)
