Chromatic Optical Coherence Tomography for Clear and Deep-Tissue Imaging

Abstract

We present a chromatic optical coherence tomography system that achieves clear and deep-tissue imaging by exploiting an intentional chromatic focal shift. A broadband light source (650-950 nm), high-NA dispersive optics, and a chromatic-gating (ChG) algorithm enable simultaneous high resolution, extended depth of focus, and strong signal-to-noise ratio. Experiments with microspheres and biological tissues demonstrate isotropic similar to 3 mu m resolution and a seven-fold depth-of-focus extension while maintaining high contrast and minimal artifacts. The proposed method provides a simple, phase-insensitive approach suitable for real-time and in vivo applications.