Holography for the Undergraduate Laboratory

Holography, or three-dimensional photography, has been predominantly restricted to the advanced scientific laboratory. Improvements in gas lasers, photographic film, and methods of demonstration have all combined to allow the art to be practiced in graduate, undergraduate, and high schools with pleasing results. This note will present many of the practical aspects needed to ensure quality holograms and will suggest a few experiments to demonstrate the many applications of holography. With much of the equipment already on campus, it is suggested that these experiments can be included in an undergraduate course for a total investment of under $150. The demonstrations are most suitable for electrical and mechanical engineering students, but they will generate interest among all students.