Interferometer Flats
Interferometer Flats
Our fused silica interferometer flat is polished on both sides to a λ/10 flatness with 10-5 scratch-dig surface quality. A slight 30 ±5 arc-min wedge suppresses internal fringes. This optic is delivered with an interferogram enabling use as a calibrated reference surface.
- UV fused silica for excellent thermal stability
- λ/10 surface flatness and 10-5 scratch-dig
- Individually tested with Interferogram included
- Slight wedge virtually eliminates internal fringes See All Features
Features
UV Fused Silica for UV, Laserline & Broadband Applications
UV Grade Fused Silica is synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide of extremely high purity providing maximum transmission from 195 to 2100 nm. This non-crystalline, colorless silica glass combines a very low thermal expansion coefficient with good optical qualities, and excellent transmittance in the ultraviolet region. Transmission and homogeneity exceed those of crystalline quartz without the problems of orientation and temperature instability inherent in the crystalline form. It will not fluoresce under UV light and is resistant to radiation. For high-energy applications, the extreme purity of fused silica eliminates microscopic defect sites that could lead to laser damage.
Slight Wedge Suppresses Internal Fringes
Highly parallel flats are unsuited for use as reference elements in interferometers as reflections from both surfaces follow the same optical path toward the viewer or imaging system, resulting in undesired large period ghost fringes.
Fizeau Interferometer Applications
A Fizeau Interferometer may be used to test the flatness of an optical surface, by comparing its figure against the known figure of the interferometer flat.
Fabry Perot Interferometer Applications
Fabry Perot interferometers use two interferometer flats with flat surfaces facing each other to form an air spaced resonant cavity.