Flow measurements based on Rayleigh scattering and Fabry-Perot interferometer

Flow diagnostics based on molecular Rayleigh scattering are discussed along with the results of a feasibility study to non-intrusively measure flow properties in a small supersonic wind tunnel. The technique uses an injection seeded, frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser tuned to an absorption band of iodine. The molecular Rayleigh scattered light is filtered with an iodine cell to block light at the laser frequency. The Doppler-shifted Rayleigh scattered light that passes through the iodine cell is analyzed with a planar mirror Fabry-Perot interferometer used in a static imaging mode. An intensified CCD camera is used to record the images. The images are analyzed at several subregions, where the flow properties are determined. Each image is obtained with a single laser pulse, giving instantaneous measurements.