Optical pulse distance-multiplying interferometry

A possibility of creation of long baselines by the distance-multiplying interferometric method for a calibration distance-measuring apparatus is considered. In contrast to existing versions of this method, in which cw radiation is used, we propose using wideband picosecond continuum radiation generated by powerful ultrashort laser pulses. In the experiment the interference pattern that is typical for white light, with a stable achromatic fringe, was observed. The presence of an achromatic fringe confirms a possibility of carrying out the measurements with an error of less than a wavelength of light. A possible arrangement of a pulse interferometer free from atmospheric fluctuations to create the baselines by one-stage measurement is discussed.