Refractive index measurement by spectrally resolved interferometry using a femtosecond pulse laser.

We describe a measurement method of refractive indices by way of spectrally resolved interferometry using a femtosecond pulse laser. The method is dispersion insensitive and requires no prior precise knowledge of the geometrical thickness of the specimen. Not only the group but also the phase refractive index can be determined over the wide spectral range covered by the optical comb of the femtosecond pulse laser in use.