IMPS, A Static-Optics Application of Full-Stokes Spectropolarimetry to Search for Extraterrestrial Biosignatures
Abstract
Optical spectropolarimetry holds great promise in the search for extraterrestrial life. In particular, the detection of circular polarization can indicate chirality, a signature of biological significance. We describe an on-going effort to implement the full-Stokes (I, Q, U, V), static-optics concept for optical spectropolarimetry described by Sparks et al. [App. Optics, 51, 5495 (2012)]. Our early breadboard embodiments of the concept demonstrate its simplicity and indicate its potential for space missions in which a compact design with no moving parts is crucial to achieve the mission goals. We describe the instrument, called the Integrated Miniature Polarimeter and Spectrograph (IMPS), and consider one example for its deployment: a mission to land on an outer solar system body such as Europa.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2016
- Bibcode:
- 2016AGUFM.P11C1873T
- Keywords:
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- 5210 Planetary atmospheres;
- clouds;
- and hazes;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: ASTROBIOLOGYDE: 6015 Dust;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: COMETS AND SMALL BODIESDE: 6094 Instruments and techniques;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: COMETS AND SMALL BODIESDE: 6296 Extra-solar planets;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: SOLAR SYSTEM OBJECTS