The intensity interferometer; its application to astronomy

This book gives a complete account of the discovery, theory, experimental confirmation, and successful application of the intensity interferometer, an instrument used to measure the apparent angular diameters of stars. The history of stellar interferometry is outlined together with the development of the intensity interferometer at Narrabri Observatory, New South Wales, Australia. The theory of coherent light is reviewed, and the principles of Michelson's (1920) stellar interferometer are described together with those of linear-multiplier and coincidence-counter intensity interferometers. Working formulas from which the performance of practical interferometers has been calculated are presented, effects of atmospheric scintillation are discussed, and laboratory tests of intensity interferometers are reviewed. The Narrabri stellar interferometer is described in detail, and some results obtained with this instrument are discussed. Future possibilities are considered for a high-resolution intensity interferometer.