TECH FOCUS: INTERFEROMETRY
Measure for measure I
Shining a light on the latest optical components, subsystems and other photonics products for use in interferometry
nterferometry is a measurement technique used to study waves, particularly
electromagnetic waves such as light. The basic principle of interferometry involves combining two or more waves that are out of phase with each other in such a way that they interfere constructively or destructively, resulting in patterns of light and dark areas that are called interference fringes. In the context of light,
interferometry is often used Knight Optical FEATURED PRODUCT
to achieve high-precision measurements of various properties such as distance, wavelength, phase, and even the shape of objects. It’s employed in various fields for a wide range of applications such as astronomy, optical testing and metrology, particle physics, quantum mechanics, engineering and material science and medical imaging.
The Michelson interferometer is one of the most well-known types of interferometers. It was
used by Albert A. Michelson in the late 19th century to measure the speed of light and has since become a fundamental tool in various scientific and engineering disciplines. Interferometry relies on the constructive and destructive interference of waves to extract precise information. It has significantly contributed to our understanding of wave phenomena and has led to many technological advancements. Optics and photonics are
Hamamatsu Photonics FEATURED PRODUCT
As a premier provider of high-precision optics, Knight Optical recognises the paramount significance of employing top-tier equipment to achieve optimum results. With its extensively equipped Metrology Laboratory, including a top-of-the-line ZYGO interferometer designed for measuring parameters such as flatness and form error, Knight Optical underscores the critical importance of utilising high-quality components in these systems. This commitment to excellence is reflected in its comprehensive lineup of optics tailored for interferometry applications, offering unwavering reliability and the highest calibre performance. Boasting an extensive selection of interferometry optics, Knight Optical’s portfolio encompasses:
• Beamsplitters • Optical Flats • Mirrors • Lenses • Waveplates • Gratings The optical specialist recognises that ready-made components
may not consistently suit its customers’ needs. To address the demands of individuals engaged in specialised applications, Knight Optical provides custom-made options for its optical components, along with tailored optical coatings. Contact our UK and US teams and experience true precision, quality and innovation.
Further information
www.knightoptical.com
Interferometry in the palm of your hand: Hamamatsu Photonics’ MEMS-FTIR Engine is a technological innovation that integrates interferometry principles into a micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)-based Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) solution. This cutting-edge engine combines the precision of interferometry with the miniaturisation capabilities of MEMS technology, resulting in a powerful, compact, and high-performance FTIR spectrometer. At the core of this technology is an interferometer that features a
movable mirror whose position is precisely tracked by an integrated laser system to increase repeatability. This breakthrough allows for real-time, high-resolution spectral analysis in a handheld device. Researchers and industries can leverage the MEMS-FTIR Engine for applications such as chemical analysis, environmental monitoring, and process control. It outperforms bulkier bench-top instruments in terms of sensitivity and spectral resolution. The MEMS-FTIR Engine represents a pivotal advancement in
interferometry technology, offering users the ability to perform intricate spectroscopic measurements with exceptional accuracy and portability.
Further information
www.hamamatsu.com/eu/en/applications/analytical-equipment/
ftir.html?utm_source=Electro_Optics&utm_medium=referral+&utm_ campaign=57_MEMS_FTIR&utm_content=TechFocus
38 Electro Optics October 2023
www.electrooptics.com
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