Interferometry

marko@markosarson.com how is interferomety used in practise these days Interferometry is a technique used to measure the properties of waves, such as light waves, by observing their interference patterns. In practice, interferometry is used in a wide range of applications in various fields, including: Astronomy: Interferometry is used to measure the properties of light emitted by stars and galaxies. Large interferometers, such as the Very Large Telescope (VLT) in Chile and the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA), are used to study the properties of celestial objects with very high precision. Optics: Interferometry is used to measure the properties of lenses, mirrors, and other optical components. This technique is used to ensure the accuracy of optical devices used in various applications, such as microscopy, lithography, and spectroscopy. Metrology: Interferometry is used to measure the properties of surfaces, such as flatness and roughness, with high precision. This technique is used in manufacturing processes, such as the production of computer chips and precision optics. Seismology: Interferometry is used to study seismic waves and to detect earthquakes. This technique is used to improve our understanding of the Earth's structure and to monitor seismic activity. Engineering: Interferometry is used in engineering applications, such as the testing of aircraft and spacecraft structures for vibration and deformation. Interferometers are used to detect changes in the shape and position of structures with high precision. Overall, interferometry is a versatile and powerful technique that finds applications in a wide range of fields, from astronomy to engineering. marko@markosarson.com how is it used in medicine Interferometry has several applications in medicine, particularly in the field of ophthalmology. Ophthalmic interferometry is used to measure the shape and refractive properties of the eye, as well as to diagnose and monitor various eye conditions. One of the most common medical applications of interferometry is in the measurement of corneal topography. Corneal topography is used to create a three-dimensional map of the cornea, which helps ophthalmologists diagnose and treat a variety of eye conditions, such as keratoconus and corneal dystrophies. Interferometry-based techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Scheimpflug imaging, are used to create these maps with high accuracy and resolution. Interferometry is also used in the measurement of intraocular pressure, which is important in the diagnosis and management of glaucoma. The technique of corneal biomechanical analysis, which measures the deformation of the cornea under a controlled load, can be performed using an interferometric device. In addition, interferometry-based techniques, such as speckle contrast imaging and laser Doppler flowmetry, are used to measure blood flow in the eye and in other tissues, which can provide valuable information about a variety of medical conditions. Overall, interferometry has several important applications in medicine, particularly in the field of ophthalmology, and is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of medical conditions. marko@markosarson.com is it used in neuroscience Yes, interferometry is also used in neuroscience research. In neuroscience, interferometry is typically used to study neural activity by measuring the tiny fluctuations in light that occur as neurons fire. One application of interferometry in neuroscience is in the study of brain function using functional optical coherence tomography (fOCT). fOCT is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses interferometry to measure changes in the optical properties of brain tissue, such as changes in blood flow and oxygenation, which are associated with neural activity. Another application of interferometry in neuroscience is in the study of neuronal networks using multi-electrode array (MEA) interferometry. MEA interferometry uses interferometry to measure the electrical signals generated by neurons as they communicate with each other in large networks. This technique can provide valuable information about the dynamics of neural networks and how they contribute to brain function. Overall, interferometry is a valuable tool in neuroscience research, allowing scientists to study the complex dynamics of neural activity and the underlying mechanisms of brain function.