Multifunctional meta-optic azimuthal shear interferometer

TL;DR

This paper introduces a compact, robust, and broadband meta-optic azimuthal shear interferometer that enhances wavefront analysis accuracy and stability while reducing system size and complexity.

Contribution

It presents a novel meta-optics-based interferometer with uniform azimuthal shear, eliminating bulky components and multi-path alignment, suitable for real-time optical applications.

Findings

Achieved a millimeter-scale, common-path interferometer.

Demonstrated multifunctionality in edge detection and wavefront sensing.

Enhanced stability and accuracy over conventional systems.

Abstract

Azimuthal shear interferometry is a versatile tool for analyzing wavefront asymmetries. However, conventional systems are bulky, alignment-sensitive, and prone to nonuniform shear. We present a broadband, compact, and robust meta-optics-based azimuthal shear interferometer in a common-path configuration, reducing the system size to the millimeter scale. Unlike conventional designs, the meta-optic azimuthal shear interferometer utilizes the localized wavefront modulation capabilities of meta-optics to achieve uniform azimuthal shear displacement independent of radial position, significantly enhancing accuracy and stability. Our approach eliminates the need for bulky optical components and precise multi-path alignment, making it more resilient to environmental disturbances. Its multifunctionality is demonstrated through applications in all-optical edge detection, differential interference contrast microscopy, and aberrated wavefront sensing. These results underscore its potential for real-time analog image processing, advanced optical imaging, and optical testing.