LENSVIEW: Software for modelling resolved gravitational lens images

Abstract

We have developed a new software tool, LENSVIEW, for modelling resolved gravitational lens images. Based on the LENSMEM algorithm, the software finds the best-fitting lens mass model and source brightness distribution using a maximum entropy constraint. The method can be used with any point spread function or lens model. We review the algorithm and introduce some significant improvements. We also investigate and discuss issues associated with the statistical uncertainties of models and model parameters and the issues of source plane size and source pixel size. We test the software on simulated optical and radio data to evaluate how well lens models can be recovered and with what accuracy. Fo..