Evolution of optical interferometry in view of practical a

摘要

Abstract: The time when Newton's rings were first observed may be considered as the beginning of optical interferometry as science. In the period of roughly 350 years a few milestones may be named and put in the time scale. At the end of the 19th and at the beginning of the 20th centuries the classical interferometry prospered, while after the invention of holography and the first laser coherent optical metrology took the lead and holographic interferometry partly outshined the classical counterpart, partly put it in another light. In the early period of its development optical schemes and interpretation methods were developed which was followed by searching computerized techniques for automated evaluation of interferogram. Holographic interferometry has become a versatile tool for basic and applied research, and instruments and systems have been developed for industrial uses. Full potentials of holographic interferometry in view of industrial application can be realized by purely optical and hybrid techniques. !42