Numerical Simulations in Coronagraphy. Part I.

Abstract
This paper describes a general methodology for simulating various types of coronagraphs, especially in the context of their relative comparison in terms of performance. Some critical points are discussed such as sampling problems, numerical dynamic range and computation errors which could hamper the results. Moreover, comparing the performance of these High Dynamic Range Imaging (HDRI) instruments is not straightforward, so I will define and discuss some criteria and their significance.