Analytical calculation of the solid angle subtended by a circular disc detector at a point cosine source

M. J. Prata

Published 2003-05-15, updated 2003-08-07Version 2

We derive analytical expressions for the solid angle subtended by a circular disc at a point source with cosine angular distribution ($f(\mu)=\mu/\pi$)under the sole condition that the disc lies in the half-space illuminated by the source ($\mu \geq 0$). The expressions are given with reference to two alternative coordinate systems (S and S'), S being such that the z axis is parallel to the symmetry axis of the disc and S' such that the $z'$ axis is aligned with the source direction. Sample plots of the expressions are presented.