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HoloBox - Holography and Interferometry

The HoloBox introduces you to the world of interferometry, holography, and polarization optics. Using coherent laser light, you can explore wave phenomena and create interference patterns that reveal the wave nature of light.

What You'll Learn​

  • Principles of optical interferometry
  • Coherence and interference of light waves
  • Split-beam interferometry techniques
  • Inline and off-axis holography
  • Quantitative phase imaging
  • Polarization phenomena

Interferometry Experiments​

Michelson Interferometer​

The classic interferometer that uses a beam splitter to create two separate light paths that are later recombined to create interference patterns. Fundamental for understanding wave optics and measuring optical path differences.

Mach-Zehnder Interferometer​

A split-beam interferometer with separate reference and sample arms, ideal for transmission microscopy and quantitative phase imaging. Offers greater flexibility for sample insertion compared to the Michelson design.

Inline Holography​

Record and reconstruct wavefronts using inline holographic techniques for label-free imaging and 3D reconstruction.

Polarization Experiments​

Explore the polarization properties of light through various experiments demonstrating:

  • Crossed polarizers
  • Stress birefringence
  • Three polarizer paradox
  • And more polarization phenomena

Tutorials in this Section​

  • Michelson Interferometer - Build and align a classic interferometer
  • Mach-Zehnder Interferometer - Construct a split-beam interferometer with applications in microscopy
  • Off-Axis Holography - Advanced holographic imaging techniques
  • Inline Holography - Wavefront recording and reconstruction
  • Polarization Experiments - Various demonstrations of light polarization

Key Capabilities​

  • Interference pattern generation and analysis
  • Optical path difference measurements
  • Quantitative phase imaging
  • Holographic wavefront reconstruction
  • Polarization analysis
  • Vibration and stability analysis

Required Components​

  • Laser diode (coherent light source, 532nm wavelength)
  • Precision kinematic mirrors
  • 50:50 beam splitter cubes
  • Converging lenses for beam conditioning
  • Pinhole apertures
  • Polarizers and wave plates
  • Camera for detection
  • UC2 cubes and baseplates
  • Stable optical table or platform

Perfect for physics students, optics researchers, and anyone interested in the wave nature of light and advanced imaging techniques!