The design of experiments for recording and reconstructing three-dimensional objects in coherent light (holography)

The various techniques, collectively called holography, for reconstructing three-dimensional scenes by using coherent light have an immense potential in modern technology and scientific research. To enable this to be developed it is essential in all cases to employ the best technique. The main techniques are therefore compared and contrasted and an analysis is made of such factors as vibrational stability, choice of suitable plates, beam balance, depth of field, reconstruction processes (including the derivation of schlieren and dark-field effects), exposure times, resolving power and other often conflicting requirements which must be reconciled in designing these experiments.