Abstract

We present the preliminary development steps of a holographic interferometer using a BSO crystal for the monitoring of fluids experiments under microgravity conditions. This set-up could be included in the Fluid Science Laboratory (FSL, a module dedicated to fluid physics experiment onboard the International Space Station- ISS). Some preliminary studies have been carried out. An optimized configuration has been found allowing a fast recording (50 milliseconds) and large number of readouts (>1000) for analysis of events over a long period without reducing the measurement resolution. We present examples of Rayleigh-Benard convection quantitative measurement performed with a laboratory instrument prototype.

© 2001 Optical Society of America