Narrow-band wide field-of-view filter study

A material modification of traditional birefringence interference filters, having large dispersion in birefringence near an isotropic point, results in compact, narrowband filters having a dramatically increased field of view. The development of a dispersive birefringence filter was pursued both theoretically and experimentally. The effects of sheet polarizers and conventional waveplates under these conditions were studied. The developments in dispersive birefringence filters represent a major jump in the capabilities of narrowband spectral filters. Literature surveys and subsequent laboratory studies led to the identification of potential dispersive birefringence materials which extend the spectral range of operation to both shorter and longer wavelengths.