Sampling Theorem and Discrete Fourier Transform on the Riemann Sphere ∗

Using coherent-state techniques, we prove a sampling theorem for Majorana's (holomor-phic) functions on the Riemann sphere and we provide an exact reconstruction formula as a convolution product of N samples and a given reconstruction kernel (a sinc-type function). We also discuss the effect of over-and under-sampling. Sample points are roots of unity, a fact which allows explicit inversion formulas for resolution and overlapping kernel operators through the theory of Circulant Matrices and Rectangular Fourier Matrices. The case of band-limited functions on the Riemann sphere, with spins up to J, is also considered. The connection with the standard Euler angle picture, in terms of spherical harmonics, is established through a discrete Bargmann transform.