Holography is an imaging technique that is able to map three-dimensional information onto a planar surface. Instead of measuring the intensity of each color emitted from scatters throughout the observed scene – as a common digital camera does – the object is lit by a coherent light source. The scattered object-wave interferes with the light source at the imaging plane. If then again lit by the same light source, the object wave of the object is mimicked and a three-dimensional (though one-colored) object appears.
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Real and mimicked object wave. The object-wave can be mimicked by using holography. The observer could be convinced that he looks at a real object. |
First proposed by Daniel Gabor in 1948 we are now researching the applicability of holography to image atomic structures. As the reconstructed objects do have the same size as the scattering objects, we do have to use computer algorithms to make the atoms visible. We are developing algorithms to examine different approaches on measuring and reconstructing holograms.
The ultimate goal in this area of research is the development of a universal method to make atomic structures visible non-destructively.