Large-field-of-view wide-spectrum artificial reflecting superposition compound eyes

In nature, reflecting superposition compound eyes (RSCEs) found in shrimps, lobsters and some other decapods are extraordinary imaging systems with numerous optical features such as minimum chromatic aberration, wide-angle field of view (FOV), high sensitivity to light and superb acuity to motion. Here, we present life-sized, large-FOV, wide-spectrum artificial RSCEs as optical imaging devices inspired by the unique designs of their natural counterparts. Our devices can form real, clear images based on reflection rather than refraction, hence avoiding chromatic aberration due to dispersion by the optical materials. Compared to imaging at visible wavelengths using conventional refractive lenses of comparable size, our artificial RSCEs demonstrate minimum chromatic aberration, exceptional FOV up to 165° without distortion, modest aberrations and comparable imaging quality without any post-image processing. Together with an augmenting cruciform pattern surrounding each focused image, our large-FOV, wide-spectrum artificial RSCEs possess enhanced motion-tracking capability ideal for diverse applications in military, security, medical imaging and astronomy. Artificial reflecting superposition compound eyes (RSCEs), inspired by the unique designs of their natural counterparts, possess superior optical features such as minimum chromatic aberration, wide-angle field of view (FOV), high acuity to motion and enhanced sensitivity to light unmatched by state-of-the-art refraction-based lenses. Our life-sized, wide-angle-FOV artificial RSCE can form high-quality images without any post-imaging processing in the wide visible light spectrum.