High-resolution self-referencing incoherent single-shot lensless imaging with direct image retrieval

Abstract

Lensless imaging is a family of techniques that can produce images without the need for imaging optics. Conventional lensless imaging usually requires some combination of coherent illumination, a reference beam, an optical encoder, and an iterative image retrieval algorithm. Recent advances have expanded lensless imaging to incoherent illumination, although existing methods employ specialized optical encoders to achieve this. We present a single-shot, self-referencing incoherent lensless imaging technique, which is based only on mirrors, beam splitters, and a single detector. Notably, our technique does not require iterative image retrieval. This allows us to acquire real-time lensless video, as well as demonstrate very efficient noise suppression. We experimentally demonstrate the technique's quasi-infinite depth of focus, as well as the resolution, field of view, and dependence on the coherence of the illumination. The method opens up possibilities in low cost, high resolution, and easily accessible lensless imaging.