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Airy Diffraction Resolution Limit (Rayleigh Criterion) Calculator

θ_min = 1.22 · λ / D.

Compute the Rayleigh angular resolution limit θ_min = 1.22 · λ / D imposed by Airy-disk diffraction through a circular aperture of diameter D for light of wavelength λ. Two point-sources separated by less than θ_min are unresolvable. Multiplied by working distance L gives the linear minimum-resolvable separation.

Dr. Helena Ortiz By Dr. Helena Ortiz
Published Last reviewed 1 min read

Inputs

nm
m
m

Results

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How to use this calculator

  1. Fill in the inputs above using the units you already have.
  2. Values update automatically as you type — no submit button needed.
  3. Hover any result row for the underlying formula and intermediate values.

Formula

θ_min = 1.22 · λ / D; linear = θ · L.

In depth

Compute the Rayleigh angular resolution limit θ_min = 1.22 · λ / D imposed by Airy-disk diffraction through a circular aperture of diameter D for light of wavelength λ. Two point-sources separated by less than θ_min are unresolvable. Multiplied by working distance L gives the linear minimum-resolvable separation.