title: Mueller matrix error correction for a fringe-free interferometry system.
abstract: We present an automated surface profiling system based on a shearing interferometer, in which precise measurement of the polarization states eliminates fringe ambiguity. A full error correction based on Mueller matrices allows comparatively inaccurate but rapidly switchable liquid-crystal wave plates to be used, enabling unambiguous profile information to be obtained in real time.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Glasgow, UK.
authors.forename: M L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Begbie
authors.forename: W
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Sibbett
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Padgett