4D Technology Introduces PhaseCam 5030 Interferometer For Remote Measurement Of Meter-Class Optics

Tucson, AZ — The PhaseCam™ 5030 is a high performance, Twyman-Green interferometer developed specifically to measure meter-class optics for terrestrial and space-based telescopes. Unlike traditional, phase-shifting interferometers, the PhaseCam utilizes Dynamic Interferometry® to acquire all measurement information in a single exposure, enabling measurement in the presence of vibration and air turbulence. The system is fully remote operated, for permanent mounting in measurement towers, environmental testing chambers or other locations where access to the interferometer is difficult.

Measuring the surface quality of large optics has long been a considerable challenge for telescope and satellite manufacturers. Conventional interferometers are significantly impaired by vibration and environmental noise, requiring extensive and costly measures to couple the instrument and test piece, and to isolate both from vibration sources. Because these measurements often require that the interferometer be placed many tens of meters from the optic, air turbulence also greatly diminishes the accuracy of traditional systems.

The PhaseCam 5030 includes a high-speed optical phase sensor that eliminates the need for slow, piezo-based phase-shifters, allowing the system to measure more than 10,000 times faster than a conventional, phase-shifting interferometer. Because of this near-instantaneous measurement speed, the PhaseCam is virtually immune to environmental noise, alleviating the need for vibration isolation systems. Measurement averaging software overcomes the effects of air turbulence, for highly accurate measurements even when the system is located tens of meters from the test piece.

The turnkey PhaseCam system includes the interferometer, high-speed computer system and extended-length cables for remote operation. 4Sight™ analysis software, included with the PhaseCam, provides extensive 2D and 3D analysis options, as well as comprehensive data filtering, masking, database and import/export functions.

The PhaseCam 5030 is ideally suited for metrology of large optical elements, astronomical optics, aerospace systems, directed energy optics, clean room applications typically hampered by air flow turbulence, and use in vacuum and environmental chambers.

SOURCE: 4D Technology