Polarization characteristics of an altazimuth sky scanner
Abstract
A theoretical description of the polarization characteristics of an altazimuth sky scanner optical system based on Mueller-Stokes calculus is presented. This computer-driven optical system was designed to perform laboratory studies of skylight and of celestial objects during day or night, and has no space limitations; however, the two parallel 45 deg tilt mirrors introduce some intrinsic polarization. Therefore, proper data interpretation requires a theoretical understanding of the polarization features of the instrument and accurate experimental determination of the Mueller-Stokes matrix elements describing the polarizing and depolarizing action of the system.
- Publication:
-
Applied Optics
- Pub Date:
- May 1980
- DOI:
- 10.1364/AO.19.001419
- Bibcode:
- 1980ApOpt..19.1419G
- Keywords:
-
- Optical Scanners;
- Polarization Characteristics;
- Sky Radiation;
- Atmospheric Optics;
- Azimuth;
- Celestial Bodies;
- Data Processing;
- Daytime;
- Mirrors;
- Night;
- Numerical Analysis;
- Numerical Control;
- Remote Sensors;
- Stokes Law Of Radiation;
- Astronomy