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Photonics Dictionary

centration

Centration is the precise alignment of the optical center of a lens or optical element with its mechanical center or the axis of the mounting assembly. It is crucial for ensuring that the optical system performs optimally and that light paths are correctly aligned to prevent aberrations and distortions.

Optical axis alignment: Ensuring that the optical axis (the line that passes through the center of curvature of the lens surfaces) coincides with the mechanical axis of the lens mount or holder.

Importance in optics: Proper centration is vital for minimizing optical aberrations, such as astigmatism and coma, which can degrade image quality.

Measurement and adjustment:
Centration is measured using specialized optical instruments and can be adjusted during the manufacturing or assembly process to achieve precise alignment.

Applications of centration include:

Lens manufacturing: Ensuring that lenses in cameras, microscopes, telescopes, and other optical devices are accurately aligned to produce clear and sharp images.

Optical systems: In complex optical systems, such as those used in scientific instruments and medical devices, centration ensures that all optical components work together correctly.
 
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