Modeling diffractive optics elements and devices

I analyze physical approximations and mathematical tools used when modeling diffractive optics elements and devices. Examples of the numerical simulation of focusing optical elements and a space-based Offner hyperspectral imaging spectrometer (hyperspectrometer) are presented. The design of the hyperspectrometer features the use of a diffractive optical element on curved surfaces. The modeling results show that the hyperspectrometer under study offers optical characteristics superior to those of a similar device based on spectral filters.