The Spherical Mirror Fabry-Perot Interferometer

Abstract

The theory, design, and use of the confocal spherical mirror Fabry-Perot interferometer (FPS) is described in detail. Topics covered include performance of an FPS for small departures from the confocal mirror separation, optimization of the (resolution) x (light gathering power) product, factors limiting realizable finesse, mode matching considerations, alignment procedures, and general design considerations. Two specific instruments are described. One is a versatile spectrum analyzer with piezo-electric scanning; the other is a highly stable etalon with fixed spacing. Examples of the performance of these instruments are given.