Fourier transform holography with extended references using a coherent ultra-broadband light source

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Image Reconstruction
• Holographic Imaging

Background:

• Lensless holographic imaging offers advantages over traditional microscopy.
• Extended reference structures are crucial for advanced holographic techniques.
• Ultra-broadband radiation sources enable high-resolution imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate a lensless holographic imaging technique with extended reference structures.
• To improve signal-to-noise ratio and image quality in holographic reconstructions.
• To integrate iterative phase retrieval with holographic methods for faster, reliable imaging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized ultra-broadband radiation sources for illumination in a two-pulse imaging approach.
• Employed one- and two-dimensional HERALDO (Holographic Electronically Readout Array Detector) reference structures.
• Applied intensity stitching for increased dynamic range and iterative phase retrieval with HERALDO support constraints.

Main Results:

• Achieved significant signal-to-noise ratio improvement (two orders of magnitude) compared to basic HERALDO.
• Demonstrated successful spectrally resolved data utilization for enhanced image quality.
• Obtained high-quality images rapidly and reliably through combined holography and iterative phase retrieval.

Conclusions:

• The demonstrated lensless holographic imaging technique is effective with extended reference structures and ultra-broadband illumination.
• The integration of HERALDO, intensity stitching, and iterative phase retrieval offers a powerful approach for advanced imaging.
• This method provides a substantial improvement in image quality and signal-to-noise ratio for holographic reconstructions.