1. A system for numerical image formation and for refinement from overlapping measurement vignettes captured by an image sensor array with associated micro-optical arrangements, the image sensor creating a plurality of light detection signals responsive to a plurality optically vignetted portions of an incoming light field associated with an observed scene, the system comprising: a multiplexing arrangement for gathering said plurality of light detection signals into a stream of measurement values responsive to an incoming light field associated with an observed scene; a processor for receiving the stream of measurement values, the processor executing the numerical image formation algorithm on the stream of measurement values to produce at least one synthesized digital image; and an output for transferring said at least one synthesized digital image to an external system; wherein the processor produces a visual image responsive to the incoming light field associated with an observed scene