TRANSVERSE COLOR TOLERANCES FOR VISUAL OPTICAL-SYSTEMS

We performed psychophysical experiments to determine the effects of transverse chromatic aberration on observer performance through a specially designed telescopic system that presents negligible monochromatic aberration. Our results provide the basis for assessing the performance of visually coupled lenses in detail. The effect of transverse color on contrast sensitivity is more severe than on resolution. Color effects are compared with those of astigmatism: It is shown how one may make detailed predictions of system performance in order to decide on the necessary balance of aberrations at the design stage.