Mixed-polarization modes of Michelson-type optical resonators

A complete analysis is made of the mode structure in Michelson-type optical resonators using an eigenvalue method that gives solutions in terms of arm lengths, loss-gain parameters, and beam-splitter reflectivities. It is shown that mode suppression can be obtained in several possible ways, one of them based on the use of mixed polarization in the resonator. Also, it appears that more general mode control functions are possible, such as obtaining modes in pairs or triplets with frequency separations that can be adjusted by choosing appropriate design parameters.