ABSTRACT
This entry follows the development of optical design and fabrication in a historical, chronological line. Instead of immediately analyzing the complicated present-day knowledge and technology, it focuses on the big steps forward which have been realized in the past. It is interesting to note that theory, viz., design, and technology were permanently closely linked together but that the advancement of both was not synchronous. The most impressive leaps forward were achieved each time when a great scientist stood up with a firm theoretical background in optical science and optical design and with a keen interest in technology and fabrication. The entry then presents some examples of technological achievements and discusses research directions in the field of optical design and fabrication.
