What are lens aberrations?

Lens aberrations refer to imperfections in the lens system that cause images to be distorted or blurred. This phenomenon occurs due to various factors, including the shape and material of the lens, as well as the angles at which light rays enter the lens. In an ideal optical system, light rays would converge perfectly at a single point to create a clear image. However, aberrations lead to deviations from this ideal scenario, resulting in imperfections such as color fringing, blurriness, or distortion.

These aberrations can occur in different forms, including spherical aberration, chromatic aberration, and coma, among others. Understanding lens aberrations is crucial for opticians as it influences the design and selection of lenses to ensure that they provide the best possible visual quality for patients. By recognizing the types of aberrations and their effects, opticians can recommend corrective measures or lens types that minimize these distortions, ultimately improving image clarity for users.