A phase-sensitive interferometric broadband reflectometer includes an
illumination source for generating an optical beam. A beam splitter or
other optical element splits the optical beam into probe beam and
reference beam portions. The probe beam is reflected by a subject under
test and then rejoined with the reference beam. The combination of the
two beams creates an interference pattern that may be modulated by
changing the length of the path traveled by the probe or reference beams.
The combined beam is received and analyzed by a spectrometer.