Fabry–Pérot Expertise for Research and Industry
Fabry–Pérot technology – ultra-high-resolution spectroscopy
The Fabry–Pérot interferometer, also known as a Fabry–Pérot cavity or etalon, is a fundamental optical device that operates based on multiple-beam interference. It consists of two parallel, highly reflective surfaces, which create multiple reflections of light between them. As light bounces between the mirrors, only specific wavelengths that meet the resonance conditions interfere constructively and are either transmitted or reflected, resulting in sharp spectral features.
Fabry–Pérot Ultra-High-Resolution Spectroscopy
The Fabry–Perot interferometer is a cornerstone of precision optics, but with that precision comes technical challenges that require deep knowledge to match.
Our Directors, Dr. Michael Foster and Dr. Jonathan Storey, are recognised as world-leading experts in Fabry–Pérot techniques, bringing their extensive experience to custom projects for clients.
Fabry-Perot spectroscopy is a powerful optical technique for measuring the spectral characteristics of light with remarkable precision.
At its core is the Fabry-Perot interferometer — a system of two parallel reflective surfaces that generate multiple light reflections, producing high-resolution interference patterns. These patterns provide detailed information about the wavelength, frequency, and fine structure of light, making Fabry-Perot spectroscopy ideal for applications that require precise spectral analysis.
Fabry–Pérot enables the sharpest measurements and the cleanest signal by controlling how light resonates between two reflective parallel surfaces.
The Fabry–Pérot interferometer, also known as a Fabry–Pérot cavity or etalon, operates based on multiple-beam interference. It consists of two parallel, highly reflective surfaces, which create multiple reflections of light between them. When the light hits one of the surfaces, some is transmitted out while the remaining part is reflected. Fabry-Pérot produces a circular fringe pattern, like the Michelson pattern. However, the fringes are thinner, brighter, and more widely spaced. Fabry–Pérot systems can accurately isolate, filter, or stabilise light, resolving the fine features of a transmission spectrum with high precision.
Challenges
Ultra-High Resolution Spectrometers
Our consultancy services and engineering capabilities will help you achieve high-quality imaging detection systems that provide state-of-the-art spectral resolution.
We have designed both fixed and tunable solutions, offering unparalleled levels of optical performance. We have also designed systems in both imaging and filtering configurations and operating in 300 – 2000 nm region, with working diameters of up to 200 mm!
If you require systems that represent the latest interferometric technology and are ideal for the most challenging of ground-based scientific measurements, from astronomical observations through to atmospheric LIDAR measurements, ISI can help.
Fabry–Pérot systems present significant technical challenges. Designing and aligning the cavity with the necessary precision demands deep expertise; even slight imperfections in mirror flatness, alignment, or surface coatings can degrade performance. Thermal, mechanical, and vibrational stability are constant concerns. Optimising parameters such as finesse, free spectral range, and cavity length often involves complex trade-offs depending on the specific application. Effective implementation requires careful design, precise fabrication, and expert tuning — all areas where specialised consultancy makes a critical difference.
Why Expert Support Matters
Working with Fabry–Pérot systems is challenging. Designing for the appropriate finesse, optimising spectral performance, and achieving mechanical and thermal stability necessitate deep technical knowledge and meticulous execution. Even minor errors in alignment, surface quality, or environmental control can compromise results.
That’s where we come in. Our consultancy provides the expertise you need to design, build, and optimise Fabry–Pérot systems for your specific goals — accelerating your project, improving your outcomes, and saving you costly trial and error. Our team of engineers, scientists, and technicians has world-leading experience in developing optical-based instruments. We focus on understanding your needs so we can help you develop bespoke, correctly engineered, and innovative solutions.
Applications include:
- Astronomy
- Solar Observations
- High-resolution Imaging spectroscopy
- LIDAR
- High-resolution spectral measurement
Contact us
Contact IS-Instruments to find out more.
If you would like to discuss Fabry-Perot spectroscopy in further detail or have a project you would like help with, please email us or fill out this form, and one of our experts will contact you.