optics; polarimetry; spectropolarimetry; birefringence; modulation scheme; efficiency of modulation
Abstract :
[en] An innovative model of a static spectropolarimeter able to cover the entire Stokes
vector is discussed. The optical layout is based on a birefringent modulator formed by two antiparallel
prisms stuck together with the help of an intermediary part of the same material. This
optical model has the advantage of being extremely compact. It avoids any movable parts or
rotating components. By its architecture, the device induces a complete modulation on the vertical
direction of any incoming polarized light, facilitating the determination of the entire Stokes
vector through a single measurement. Because the modulation is also wavelength-dependent,
spectral dependencies of the polarization states can be derived. The behavior of the model was
first investigated in noise-free conditions. The existence of a unique solution was proven in the
absence of noise and for any Stokes vector configuration. Under noisy conditions, the uncertainty
on the Stokes parameters and the efficiency of the modulation scheme were evaluated as
a function of the analyzer’s angle and for two different configurations of the modulator. The
simulations show that an almost ideal efficiency is reachable, qualifying the concept for the
high-precision measurement of the polarization.
Precision for document type :
Case briefs/Comments on statutes or statutory instruments
Disciplines :
Space science, astronomy & astrophysics
Author, co-author :
Vasilescu, Bogdan ; Université de Liège - ULiège > CSL (Centre Spatial de Liège)
Loicq, Jerôme ; Université de Liège - ULiège > CSL (Centre Spatial de Liège)
Nazé, Yaël ; Université de Liège - ULiège > Groupe d'astrophysique des hautes énergies (GAPHE)
Language :
English
Title :
Solution uniqueness and noise impact in a static spectropolarimeter based on birefringent prisms for full Stokes parameter retrieval
Publication date :
23 April 2020
Journal title :
Journal of Astronomical Telescopes, Instruments, and Systems
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