  In this work, we propose and demonstrate experimentally a compact technique
for the generation of cylindrical vector beams, based on a Michelson
interferometer and a $\pi$-astigmatic mode converter, capable of inverting the
topological charge of higher-order Laguerre-Gauss beams. Compared to previously
demonstrated methods, this is relatively easy to align, and very compact. In
addition, it generalises the concept of astigmatic mode conversion, commonly
associated with scalar beams, to vector beams with non-homogeneous polarisation
distribution. We anticipate that many of the applications based on Michelson
interferometers will benefit from the unique properties of vector beams.
