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Reflectivity mapping of large-aperture mirrors with cavity ringdown technique.
Applied Optics
|February 4, 2017
Summary
A new device precisely maps reflectivity on large mirrors using optical-feedback cavity ringdown. This technique achieves sub-millimeter resolution for high-reflectivity (HR) mirror analysis.
Area of Science:
- Optical Engineering
- Metrology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Accurate characterization of highly reflective (HR) mirrors is crucial for optical systems.
- Existing methods may lack the precision or spatial resolution for large-aperture optics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a high-precision instrument for mapping reflectivity distributions on large-aperture HR mirrors.
- To investigate the reflectivity non-uniformity and measurement repeatability of HR mirrors.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an optical-feedback cavity ringdown technique for reflectivity measurements.
- Employed a two-dimensional raster scanning method to map mirror surfaces up to 300 mm in diameter.
- Used a laser source with a 0.4 mm beam diameter for sub-millimeter spatial resolution.
Main Results:
- Achieved reflectivity maps with sub-millimeter spatial resolution.
- Demonstrated high measurement repeatability with a standard deviation of ~0.0001% for reflectivities >99.99%.
- Enabled statistical analysis of reflectivity non-uniformity in large HR mirrors.
Conclusions:
- The developed device offers high-precision, high-resolution reflectivity mapping for large optics.
- The technique is suitable for characterizing mirror uniformity and ensuring performance in demanding optical applications.
- The system demonstrates excellent repeatability for precise metrology of advanced optical components.
