Book excerpt: This book, written by the designer of the worlds largest telescope, the VLT in Chile, covers the essential modern developments in telescope optics. In the last twenty years, modern technology has revolutionized not only manufacturing and test procedures but also the entire area of quality specification. In addition to these topics, the book also covers the alignment of telescope optics, atmospheric optics, adaptive optics, reflective coatings, and ancillary equipment. Richly illustrated, this work covers important modern techniques, which makes it one of the most complete references on telescope optics.