Aberrations of Optical Domes

Optical domes have traditionally been sections of concentric spheres or hemispheres. The concentric spherical shape facilitates the optical system design following the protective dome as well as the fabrication of the dome. Very little attention has been given to optimizing the aerodynamic performance of optical domes. We are entering an era where the design norms of the past must change to accommodate increasing aerodynamic performance goals. New domes are being designed using techniques and design forms that are being developed to take optical as well as aerodynamic performance into account.