Vectorial analysis of polarization issues in multi-axial nulling interferometers for exoplanet detection

We show the theoretical limitations of a multi-axial nulling interferometer with respect to longitudinal polarization. We furthermore analyze the filtering capabilities of a single-mode fiber in this case.

Design of a polarization nulling interferometer for exoplanet detection

We present the design of a new testbed experiment to demonstrate nulling interferometry using polarization properties. This three-beam set-up is perfectly symmetric with respect to the number of reflections and transmissions and should therefore allow a high rejection ratio in a wide spectral band.

Nulling interferometry for exoplanet detection using polarization properties

We present a new type of nulling interferometer that makes use of polarization properties to have on-axis destructive interference. The proposed design, which only involves commercial components and no achromatic device, is also suitable for internal modulation. This type of interferometer should enable a high rejection ratio in a theoretically...

Nulling interferometry without achromatic phase shifters: Latest results

We discuss the previously-reported measurements of a three-beam nulling interferometer without achromatic phase-shifters, using delay lines only. The theoretical rejection ratio of a few thousand has not been achieved experimentally. In order to explain the obtained results, some direct spectral and polarization measurements have been performed....

Polarization nulling interferometry for exoplanet detection

We introduce a new concept of nulling interferometer without any achromatic device, using polarization properties of light. This type of interferometer should enable a high rejection ratio in a theoretically unlimited spectral band. We analyze several consequences of the proposed design, notably, the possibility of fast internal modulation.

Chromatism compensation in wide-band nulling interferometry for exoplanet detection

We introduce the concept of chromatism compensation in nulling interferometry that enables a high rejection ratio in a wide spectral band. Therefore the achromaticity condition considered in most nulling interferometers can be relaxed. We show that this chromatism compensation cannot be applied to a two-beam nulling interferometer, and we make...