Fundamentals and Basic Optical Instruments includes thirteen chapters providing an introductory guide to the basics of optical engineering, instrumentation, and design. Topics include basic geometric optics, basic wave optics, and basic photon and quantum optics. Paraxial ray tracing, aberrations and optical design, and prisms and refractive optical components are included. Polarization and polarizing optical devices are covered, as well as optical instruments such as telescopes, microscopes, and spectrometers.

Includes the annual report of the Advisory Council to the Committee.