Instrumentation for Gamma-ray Polarimetry
Abstract
Gamma-ray polarimetry provides a unique diagnostic tool for high-energy sources. Measurements of linear polarization probe the source geometry, magnetic fields, and photon emission mechanisms of astrophysical sources, such as gamma-ray bursts, active galactic nuclei, pulsars, and black-hole binaries. In the gamma-ray regime, the polarization of incident photons is partially preserved by Compton scattering and pair production; therefore, telescopes that take advantage of these interaction mechanisms can operate as polarimeters. Despite the value of these measurements, gamma-ray polarimetry is still in its infancy. We will give an overview of gamma-ray polarimetry techniques, and a summary of current and future missions that aim to use this powerful tool to further our understanding of the high-energy sky.
- Publication:
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43rd COSPAR Scientific Assembly. Held 28 January - 4 February
- Pub Date:
- January 2021
- Bibcode:
- 2021cosp...43E1648K