Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the quality of light emitted from an HMD lightsource. A backlight-type lightsource is disclosed that utilizes a reflective end-wall 17 to reflect light within the lightguide. Light emitted from an illumination source and reflected from the end-wall 17 combine within the lightguide to produce light with high contrast and homogeneity. A microprism array, consisting of microprisms of uniform height and equidistant spacing, is positioned along the bottom surface of the lightguide. A portion of the combined light incident upon the microprism array is reflected in a direction substantially perpendicular to the lightguide top surface, which comprises an aperture. Light having increased brightness and homogeneity passes through the aperture. Light incident upon the top surface outside of the aperture is reflected within the lightguide so that it may subsequently be transmitted through the aperture.