Development of Multi-Fourier Transform interferometer :Fundamental

We propose the development of an instrument by the Martin & Puplett-type Fourier Transform Spectrometer to applying the aperture synthesis technique in millimeter and submillimeter waves. We call this equipment the Multi-Fourier Transform interferometer(MuFT). MuFT performs a wide band imaging, spectroscopy and polarimetry in millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths. We describe the fundamentals of MuFT, and give an example of one potential implementation. Full description of the observables by MuFT are provided. A physical explanation of the observability of the complex visibility by MuFT is given. Fundamental restrictions on observations with MuFT, eg. limits on spectral and spatial resolutions and field-of-view, are discussed. The advantages of MuFT are also summarized. c © 2008 Optical Society of America