Holographic Interferometry: A MachûZehnder Approach

Mach-Zehnder holographic interferometry is the simplest optical holographic technique and demonstrates the highest spatial resolution. This text describes the Mach-Zehnder approach to optical holography and includes the two different methods, reference beam and shearing holographic interferometry, and how they are used for effective diagnostic techniques for testing phase objects in aerospace and laser applications. It also discusses techniques of recording Mach-Zehnder holograms and techniques of enhancement of phase objects. Numerous experimental approaches demonstrate applications of studying phase objects from micro objects to wide aperture shock flows in a supersonic wind tunnel.