Low-loss ultrabroadband 90 degree optical rotator with collinear input and output beams

An achromatic device to rotate optical polarization by 90 degrees is described. This is based on a series of reflecting surfaces that rotates incoming light about the optical axis and translates it such that the exiting light is collinear. Polarization rotation is achieved by rotation of the optical beam, as opposed to the more common approach of phase retardation by use of birefringent elements. For broadband operation from the UV to the near infrared, the device was constructed by use of total internal reflection in three fused-silica glass components. Losses are minimized with interstitial surfaces designed to be angled close to Brewster's angle.