System and method for an interferometer resistant to externally applied forces

摘要

An embodiment of a ruggedized interferometer is described that comprises a light source that generates a beam of light; a fixed mirror; a moving mirror that travels along a linear path; a beam splitter that directs a first portion of the beam of light to the fixed mirror and a second portion of the beam of light to the moving mirror, wherein the beam splitter recombines the first portion reflected from the fixed mirror and the second portion reflected from the moving mirror; and a servo control that applies a substantial degree of force to the moving mirror at initiation of a turnaround period, wherein the substantial degree of force is sufficient to redirect the moving mirror traveling at a high velocity to an opposite direction of travel on the linear path.