This book explores the microscopy of phase objects, where the phase is measured across the full field of view. It begins with a good introduction to the theory of light propagation, elastic scattering, coherence, holography and Abbe’s theory of imaging. It then goes on to explain how these abstract principles can be put to use in optical coherence tomography, holographic microscopy and phase shifting interferometry. General concepts are presented, but with an emphasis on biological applications. The book doesn’t just explain how things are done, but also demonstrates practical functions through case studies, schemes and photographs. The book’s only shortcoming is that many biological concepts and terms are not properly explained. However, the references are numerous and up-to-date. The book is also accompanied by a good and comprehensive index, which makes reading easier.
Review by Dejan Pantelić, Institute of Physics, Zemun, Belgrade, Serbia.
The opinions expressed in the book review section are those of the reviewer and do not necessarily reflect those of OPN or OSA.