The optical systems design of a versatile laser interferometer

An easily operated, highly precise and versatile multi-purpose polarized laser interferometer was developed. A quarter wave-plate and polarizing beam-split prism was used so that the contrast of the interference fringes and be adjusted and the adverse effects of stray light reflected from surfaces of the interferometer eliminated. The design of the instrument and some experimental results are given. The method which uses the emitted light plane as the condition to fix the angle of rotation for the polarization analyzing device is analysed, and the method of realizing uniform inclination interference measurement with interchangeable objectives, the apparatus of quick fringe aquisition, and the double rhomboid prism alignment system designed for operating ease are described.