Developing a Single-shot Polarimeter for Astronomy with Stessed-engineered Optics
Abstract
True single-shot polarimetry can be accomplished by utilizing a stress-engineered optic, with birefringence that varies spatially along its cross-section (Ramkhalawon et al. 2012). As light passes through such an optic, it will acquire a PSF that is unique to its polarization, providing the ability to measure all four Stokes parameters in a single image. This technique has not yet been adapted to astronomy. Our effort to do so faces several challenges, including the measurability of these PSFs for low polarizations, and through atmospheric turbulence. Current research demonstrates that low polarizations can remain measurable with the correct selection of stressed-optic and CCD parameters. Additionally, if signal is adequate (10^7 photons), then we demonstrate that turbulence does not negatively impact measurability. These results are leading toward the University of Denver's development of the first polarimeter to utilize these techniques in astronomy. This instrument will have intended applications of studying exoplanets and contributing to polarimetry surveys. The authors are grateful to the estate of William Herschel Womble for the support of astronomy at the University of Denver.
- Publication:
-
American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts #229
- Pub Date:
- January 2017
- Bibcode:
- 2017AAS...22915518W