Multiple-Prism Arrays and Multiple-Prism Beam Expanders: Laser Optics and Scientific Applications

Multiple-prism arrays were introduced by Newton in his book entitled Opticks in 1704 [1]. In addition to the introduction of the reflection telescope and a detailed qualitative description of multiple-prism arrays, the use of the prism as a beam expander was also suggested in that prophetic book [2]. A subsequent significant contribution was made by Brewster, who introduced prism pairs as beam expanders in 1813 [3].