What is interferometry?

1 Answer
Apr 20, 2016

A superimposition of multiple inputs (images, waveforms) to enhance the extraction of useful information.

Explanation:

It could be an excellent example of the phrase, “The Whole is greater than the sum of the parts.”

From the Free Dictionary, the astronomical application is Any of several optical, acoustic, or radio-frequency instruments that use interference phenomena between a reference wave and an experimental wave or between two parts of an experimental wave to determine wavelengths and wave velocities, measure very small distances and thicknesses, and calculate indices of refraction.
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/interferometry

A very good historical review and application paper can be found here: Optical interferometry in astronomy . Monnier, John D., University of Michigan 2003.
http://dept.astro.lsa.umich.edu/~monnier/Publications/ROP2003_final.pdf