A display system includes an optical component having a first and second surface, wherein the first surface comprises a diffractive optical element, and a projector system to create a projected image on the optical component. The projector includes an illumination source that emits electromagnetic radiation within a predetermined spectral band, an image generator that ascribes image characteristics to the radiation, and an optically-powered component that directs the radiation at the first surface of the optical component. The diffractive optical element reflects at least a portion of the radiation in a predetermined direction. The optical component has zero optical power for transmitted light. The optical component transmits at least a portion of the ambient scenery within a predetermined spectral band within a field-of-view of the projected image. The projected image maintains substantial boresight alignment with the ambient image.