Interferometric array generation

• Published in: Optics and laser technology Vol. 38; no. 1; pp. 37 - 45
• Main Authors: Patra, A.S., Khare, Alika
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01.02.2006; Elsevier Science
• Subjects: Array illuminator (AIL); Exact sciences and technology; Fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications); Hexagonal arrays; Instruments, apparatus, components and techniques common to several branches of physics and astronomy; Interferometers; Optical elements, devices, and systems; Optical instruments, equipment and techniques; Optics; Optoelectronics and interferometry; Physics; Reflectors, beam splitters, and deflectors; Hexagonal arrays; Array illuminator (AIL); Optoelectronics and interferometry; Mach-Zehnder interferometers; Intensity distribution; Michelson interferometers; Array illuminator; Fringe visibility
• ISSN: 0030-3992; 1879-2545
• DOI: 10.1016/j.optlastec.2004.09.008

We report the formation of square, rectangular as well as hexagonal arrays of small light spots in one single setup using Michelson and Mach–Zehnder interferometers in tandem. The geometry of arrays can be altered easily online, by changing the relative orientations of the mirrors. The arrays could be scanned over large longitudinal distances and could be compressed to give large spot density. The expression for the resultant intensity distribution for the arrays has been worked out and the computed pattern is compared with the experimental data.