Polarized Beam, Matched Coincident Beam Path, Interferometric Gradiometer Apparatus and Method

摘要

A gravity gradient is measured interferometrically from two polarized light beams having mutually different polarization planes which reflect from opposite surfaces of two freefalling test masses. The two polarized light beams project along matched coincident beam paths and divert from the coincident paths to interact with the freefalling test masses. An enhanced level of common mode rejection of adverse influences arises from traversing the coincident beam paths.

主权项

1. An interferometric gradiometer comprising upper and lower test masses and optical elements which interact with first and second light beams having respectively different planes of polarization in a coincident beam path to divert the first light beam from the coincident beam path to impinge upon and reflect from an upper surface of the upper test mass in freefall and a lower surface the lower test mass in freefall and to divert the second light beam from the coincident beam path to impinge upon and reflect from a lower surface of the upper test mass in freefall and an upper surface of the lower test mass in freefall.