Optics Question

[calbiterol]

So let's say I want to make a double parabolic mirror (like the one at http://www.optigone.com/ ) that recreates a virtual image of a three dimensional object. That in itself wouldn't be too incredibly challenging. It's also entirely possible to do so.

 

But is it possible to enlarge the virtual image using nothing but the shape of the parabola(s)? Or, if not, then the parabolas and a lens?

 

While I'm on the subject, how do those devices work? I know that they just reflect the image back up to a different focal point, but what is the physics behind it? Specifically, how is the virtual image created, and where are the focal points of the parabolas?

[calbiterol]

*Bump.*

 

C'mon, somebody's got to have some idea of how these things work...

[Cap'n Refsmmat]

I think the nature of those is that they have to reproduce it the same size. If you enlarge it, you lose the image since it gets dim (light is spread out).

 

Of course, I could just be raving. I don't know much about optics.

[calbiterol]

Let's say I don't care about how dim it gets... Then, would it be possible?

[Cap'n Refsmmat]

Yes.

 

No, wait. It needs a certain interference pattern of light to work, and changing the size of the image may change the interference pattern.

 

Is there a physicist in the house?

[calbiterol]

So let's say I want to make a double parabolic mirror (like the one at http://www.optigone.com/ ) that recreates a virtual image of a three dimensional object. That in itself wouldn't be too incredibly challenging. It's also entirely possible to do so.

 

While I'm at it, can someone explain to me the physics behind these?