A virtual imaging system (10) that allows a user to view a virtual image of an object field is provided. The system includes an imaging subsystem (11) having at least one lens (14). The imaging subsystem is arranged such that its object field (13) is at or near its focal point, thereby positioning the virtual image at or near infinity. In one embodiment, the imaging subsystem further includes an image generator (15) located in the object field. The system further includes an eyebox spreader (16) that is arranged to receive the light transmitted from the imaging subsystem and to redirect the light to a user's eye (2). The eyebox spreader is adapted to effectively increase an eyebox "A" of the imaging subsystem to "B" and thus the size of the virtual image. In one embodiment, the eyebox spreader is formed of a Fresnel surface that defines an array of parallel, optically flat facets thereon. Spreading the eyebox in this manner allows for a user to view the virtual image at ease while at the same time allowing the virtual imaging system to be compactly constructed and light in weight.