Walkup, Michael D.2014-03-142014-03-141996etd-08292008-063212http://hdl.handle.net/10919/44481The objective of this research is to study the field of optical engineering and to combine this knowledge with radiation heat transfer analysis to create a radiometric imaging design tool. In particular, the tool is aimed at design of reflective radiometric imaging telescopes, capable of highly accurate heat flux measurements, to be used in space-borne satellite applications. A concise reference guide is provided to aid in the design of somewhat generic reflective radiometric imaging systems. Also developed is a Monte-Carlo virtual optical workbench that models one- and two-mirror reflective radiometric telescopes. The virtual optical workbench is capable of performing optical analyses and generating radiometric images based on temperatures of scene components and telescope structures. The workbench model allows simulation of surfaces with different absorptivities, along with simulation of surfaces that have diffuse as well as specular components of reflectivity. Results from the virtual optical workbench are presented to show the myriad of functions incorporated in this powerful new tool.xiv, 215 leavesBTDapplication/pdfenIn CopyrightimagingradiometryMonte-CarloaberrationsLD5655.V855 1996.W356Thesishttp://scholar.lib.vt.edu/theses/available/etd-08292008-063212/