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An automatic polarimeter for space applications
1Uiversity of Arizona, Tucson,Arizona 85721, USA.
Applied Optics
|January 12, 2010
Summary
A new compact automatic polarimeter was developed for space missions, capable of analyzing polarized light for planetary scans. Its successful balloon tests suggest suitability for spacecraft, offering simultaneous measurements for lunar and planetary exploration.
Area of Science:
- Space exploration
- Astrophysics
- Optical instrumentation
Background:
- Developing advanced instrumentation is crucial for enhancing spacecraft capabilities in lunar and planetary missions.
- Accurate measurement of light polarization provides valuable data for understanding celestial body surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a compact automatic polarimeter as a pilot model for NASA's lunar and planetary missions.
- To enable simultaneous analysis of polarized light for determining Stokes parameters (I, Q, U).
Main Methods:
- The polarimeter automatically analyzes linearly polarized light into four intensities.
- It incorporates an electronic observation sequencer and automatic gain selector for autonomous operation.
- Measurements can be taken across five wavelength bands (1900 Å to 6000 Å) with automatic calibration.
Main Results:
- The polarimeter successfully operated during three high-altitude balloon flights, validating its design.
- Preliminary ground-based results on the wavelength dependence of lunar disk polarization (2850 Å to 5100 Å) were obtained.
Conclusions:
- The developed polarimeter design is sound and suitable for space missions with minor modifications for vibration resistance.
- Its capability for simultaneous measurements makes it ideal for planetary scans using fly-by probes.
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