Singularity Theory and Gravitational Lensing

First monograph to develop a mathematical theory of gravitational lensing. Introductory chapters present historical highlights and astrophysical aspects of the subject. Main part of the book employs ideas and results of singularity theory to put gravitational lensing on a rigorous mathematical foundation to solve certain key lensing problems. Many results published for the first time. Includes examples, illustrations, bibliography and index. For a wide audience of students, mathematicians, mathematical physicists, astrophysicists, and physicists.