Astigmatic pencil rays

[Maria]

Is it possible to calculate the line foci and the disc of least confusion (total misnomer) without being given the diameter of the astigmatic thin lens?
Yes, you've guessed it! It's part 2 of the occasional series, "Help Maria with her homework". :)

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Maria "no amusing quote" K

[Darryl Meister]

Hi Maria,

To the best of my knowledge, it is not possible. To determine the size of the circle of least confusion, or the length of the line foci, you need to know the size of the limiting aperture. For a thin lens by itself in air, the diameter of the lens represents the limiting aperture.

Best regards,
Darryl

[Maria]

Thanks Darryl! That's what I thought, and it turned out there was a mistake on the paper, so it was impossible. One cardiac arrest later, I am calm now. ;)

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Maria "no amusing quote" K