Mid-IR Polarimetry: New Vistas For SOFIA

Mid-infrared polarimetry remains an underexploited technique; where available, it is limited in spectral coverage from the ground, and conspicuously absent from the Spitzer, JWST and Herschel instrument suites. The unique characteristics of SOFIA afford unprecedented spectral coverage and sensitivity in the mid-infrared waveband, offering new vistas in the exploration of astrophysical objects, including (a) galaxies and AGN, (b) star formation regions and (c) dust grain chemistry. Furthering the existing 5-40um imaging and spectroscopic capabilities of SOFIA, and the University of Florida's mid-IR imager, spectrometer and polarimeter designs of T-ReCS and CanariCam, we present an overview of science highlights that could be performed from a 5-40um imaging- and spectro-polarimeter on SOFIA. A secondary science driver for is the inclusion of low- to moderate- resolution (total flux) spectroscopy at these wavelengths. We discuss the inputs and design drivers that result in the preliminary methodologies and components which provide such capabilities and take full advantage of technological progress in polarimetry. Such an instrument would fill a crucial gap in both SOFIA and space-based instrumentation. Combined with the synergy between the possible future far-IR polarimeter, Hale, this instrument would provide the SOFIA community with unique and exciting science capabilities, leaving an exclusive scientific legacy.