Zum Übergang von der Wellenoptik zur geometrischen Optik in der allgemeinen Relativitätstheorie

Abstract

The transition from the (covariantly generalized) MAXWELL equations to the geometrical optics limit is discussed in the context of general relativity, by adapting the classical series expansion method to the case of curved space time. An arbitrarily moving ideal medium is also taken into account, and a close formal similarity between wave propagation in a moving medium in flat space time and in an empty, gravitationally curved space-time is established by means of a normal hyperbolic optical metric.