Design and simulation of a Mach-Zehnder-type static Fourier spectrometer based on hollow retroreflectors

Fourier transform spectroscopy exhibits notable advantages, such as high spectral resolution and superior signal-to-noise ratio. Compared with traditional scanning Fourier transform spectroscopy, static Fourier transform spectroscopy (SFTS) provides additional benefits, including enhanced stability and structural simplicity. Generally, static Fourier transform spectrometers can be classified into Michelson-type, Sagnac-type, and Mach-Zehnder-type configurations. Among these, the Mach-Zehnder-type SFTS offers the highest optical throughput, making it particularly suitable for weak-signal detection applications. In this paper, we propose a novel Mach-Zehnder-type static Fourier transform spectrometer employing hollow retroreflectors. The operational principles and performance of the proposed spectrometer are validated through comprehensive simulations conducted using Zemax and VirtualLab Fusion software. Simulation results demonstrate that the spectrometer effectively generates clear interference fringes under monochromatic, line, and broadband illumination conditions, confirming its capability for precise spectral measurement across diverse spectral inputs.