We demonstrate subwavelength spatial resolution with a scanning microlens operating in collection mode with a large-area detector. Optical contrast is created by refraction of off-axis light rays at angles larger than the maximum collection angle. With a microfabricated silicon microlens 10 mm in diameter, we measure spatial resolution due to refraction contrast of l/4.3 at a wavelength of l510...

From the fundamental requirement of causality, we derive a rigorous criterion of negative refraction (left handedness). This criterion imposes the lower limits on the electric and magnetic losses in the region of the negative refraction. If these losses are eliminated or significantly reduced by any means, including the compensation by active (gain) media, then the negative refraction will disa...

A wedge-shaped structure made of split-ring resonators (SRR) and wires is numerically simulated to evaluate its refraction behavior. Four frequency bands, namely, the stop band, left-handed band, ultralow-index band, and positive-index band, are distinguished according to the refracted field distributions. Negative phase velocity inside the wedge is demonstrated in the left-handed band and the ...

A discussion of a question, studied earlier by V.Veselago in 1967 and by J. Pendry in 2000, is given. The question is: can a slab of the material with negative refraction make a perfect lens? Pendry’s conclusion was: yes, it can. Our conclusion is: no, in practice it cannot, because of the fluctuations of the refraction coefficient of the slab. Resolution ability of linear isoplanatic optical i...