Development of a multi-Fourier-transform interferometer: Fundamentals

We describe the development of an instrument that uses a Martin-Puplett-type Fourier-transform spectrometer to apply an aperture synthesis technique to millimeter and submillimeter waves. We call this instrument a multi-Fourier-transform interferometer (MuFT). The MuFT performs wideband imaging, spectroscopy, and polarimetry, at millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths. We describe the fundamentals of the MuFT and give an example of one potential implementation. A full description of the observables with a MuFT is provided. A physical explanation of the observability of complex visibility by the MuFT is given. Fundamental restrictions on observations with the MuFT, e.g., limits on spectral and spatial resolution and on fields of view, are discussed. The advantages of the MuFT are summarized.