Multiple telescope infrared interferometry

Abstract

The advantages of multiple telescope infrared interferometry are discussed in detail, using the 10 micron region as a specific example. Scale and seeing considerations are addressed, taking into account analytically the distorting effect of turbulent air and discussing the effect of water vapor on seeing. The usefulness of fringe phase determination to determine the intensities in the radiation field, and the effect of atmospheric fluctuations on their use, are considered. Astrometry by means of interferometry is extensively covered, with examples such as a plot of the fringe phase of o Ceti as a function of time compared with a theoretical fringe phase of the star with a fixed best-fit baseline. The sensitivity of an interferometer involving two receiving telescopes is considered. Finally, an example of a telescope design for 10-micron interferometry is described and depicted.