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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Implementation of a Reference Interferometer for Nanodetection
Published on: April 26, 2014
Measurements of absolute distances to 25 m by multiwavelength CO(2) laser interferometry
Abstract:
The development of a CO(2) laser, tunable over six rotational lines, and its use in a heterodyne interferometer for absolute distance measurements are described. Measurements were made using a variety of difference frequencies enabling distances up to 25 m to be measured to an accuracy limited by refractive-index uncertainties. An evaluation of the device using comparative measurements against a commercial laser interferometer over a common path gave an ultimate accuracy of +/-5 microm.
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