Laser and Optical Measurements

Optical measurement methods have gained a prominent importance for metrology. Although optical measurement technology is a rapidly growing area, it is not a new discipline. The development of physical sciences has been affected from the very beginning by optical measurement techniques. A great range of such techniques nowadays is based on the interference.

About the optical interferometry

Since the wavelength of visible light is quite small (approximately half a micrometer for green light), very small changes in the optical path difference produce measurable changes in the intensity of an interference pattern. As a result, optical interferometry permits extremely accurate measurements.

Optical interferometry has been used as a laboratory technique for almost a hundred years. However, several new developments have extended its scope and accuracy and have made the use of optical interferometry practical for a very wide range of measurements.

The most important of these new developments was the invention of the laser. Lasers have removed many of the limitations imposed by conventional light sources and have made possible many new interferometric techniques.

Admission information

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Key points

1. Laser technologies are one of the most crucial in modern science;
2. Application of lasers is widespread: from medical to production systems;
3. The course provides unique information about laser navigation equipment, including practical skills;
4. In lots of applications laser measurement systems are the most accurate, thus making them extremely important;
5. Our department has considerable experience in this field, as well as several laboratories and various specific equipment.

Modules

Module 1 - Introduction to Laser and Optical Gyroscopy

The subject of the first module is the study of fundamentals and main types of optical gyros, based upon the use of quantum electronics and waveguide technologies namely, of laser and fiber optical gyros, as well as of the systems, providing technique implementation in the measuring apparatus, in the inertial navigation and movement control systems. Students are introduced to the physical principles of operation and the main characteristics of different types of quantum electronics devices, study their characteristics and get practical skills with gas lasers and the laser gyroscopes.

Module 2 - Introduction to Optical Measurements, Interferometry and Optical Sensing

Second module is intended for the formation of students’ basic knowledge, ideas and skills in the following areas: interference, diffraction, basics of the optical imaging theory. The basic information about the construction, principles of operation, calculation, development and adjustment of various optical systems are given. The basic concepts of quantum electronics, the principles of action and the properties of certain types of lasers are studied.

Module 3 - Introduction to Linear and Angular Interferometric Measurement Systems

In the module historical reference concerning interference systems origination and development is presented. Furthermore, module comprises following aspects: physical basics of arrangement and functioning of interferometric linear and angular measurement systems; application scope for such systems and comparison with analogs based on different principles. Some measurement schemes are parsed in details. Accuracy and metrology issues are also regarded.

Module 4 - Introduction to Laser Technology in Heritage Science

Heritage Science is a new, but rapidly growing field of technical and natural sciences which deals with analysis, restoration and documentation of works of art. This module acquires and/or upgrades understanding of students of complex problems of restoration, storage and exhibiting of artworks and their solution by means of use of achievements of modern science. 

Module 5 - Introduction to Holography

Holography is famous as a tool for recording the realistic 3D images. We discuss its basics and possible schemes of recording 3D images and their reconstruction. However, along with 3D record, holography is also an efficient tool and method in various practical applications, including, in particular, holographic interferometery, holographic memory, information security and data protection and many others. These subjects will be also briefly overviewed in the lecture.

Module 6 - Introduction to Adaptive Optics

Today adaptive optics, i.e., the use of flexible mirrors or other controlled optical elements for correction of distortions, imposed by atmosphere, low quality or distorted elements, is an important tool in various fields of optics. First introduced in astronomy, now it is also widely used in laser technique, ophthalmology and many other practical areas. We discuss key elements of such systems like various types of wavefront sensors, of the controlled flexible mirrors etc.

About schools

Winter schools 2020

Opening of winter schools 2020

Summer schools 2019

Opening of the summer schools 2019

Winter schools 2019

Master’s degree program "Laser Measuring Technology"

There is a possibility to obtain the Master’s degree by applying for the full-time program “Laser Measuring Technology”.

Upon completion of the Master's degree program students get knowledge of quantum electronics and laser techniques. They get skills of practical work with modern laser techniques and laser measurement equipment, ability of carrying out science research during development of new laser measuring devices and systems.

About the Department

The main direction of training is high-precision measuring and navigation systems based on inertial sensing elements. A feature of the training is its versatility. Graduate needs:

• Deep knowledge of the physics of the work of inertial sensitive elements of various types - laser, microelectronic, mechanical;
• Fundamental training in the field of automation and control necessary for the development and operation of navigation systems;
• Professional knowledge of computer science and programming, ensuring the operation of autonomous navigation and control systems.

Alexander Sergeevich Kukaev

Program coordinator

PhD, associate professor

Roman Andreevich Larichev

PhD, associate professor

Alexander Alexeevich Sevruigin

PhD, associate professor

Vadim Alexandrovich Parfenov

PhD, associate professor

Vladimir Yuryevich Venediktov

Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, associate professor

 

Contacts

International Students Office