Abstract
A survey is given on optical interferometry using a Wollaston prism differential interferometer. With a number of selected examples, its potential, especially in the field of low density flow diagnostics, is demonstrated. In the first part, differential interferometry with spark light sources is treated and is shown to be a very effective means for high sensitive flow visualization. Finally, the laser differential interferometer is described originating from a combination of the differential interferometer with collimated light beams from a CW laser. Of special interest for applications to rarefied flows is its capability of resolving optical paths changes down to 10-5of the light wavelength. This is three orders of magnitude beyond the resolution limit of classical interferometry based on fringe shift analysis.
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