Compact static Fourier transform imaging spectropolarimeter based on channeled polarimetry

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Polarimetry
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Accurate measurement of light polarization is crucial in various scientific fields.
• Existing instruments often require multiple measurements or lack simultaneous spectral and spatial information.
• Development of compact and efficient polarimetry techniques is an ongoing challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theoretically describe and experimentally demonstrate a Fourier transform imaging spectropolarimeter.
• To enable real-time measurement of the polarization state of light.
• To achieve simultaneous acquisition of wavelength-dependent polarization across a spatial image.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a Wollaston prism as a birefringent interferometer.
• Incorporating two high-order retarders for channeled polarimetry.
• Employing Fourier transform principles for spectral analysis.

Main Results:

• Simultaneous acquisition of complete wavelength-dependent polarization along a 1D spatial image in a single snapshot.
• Demonstration of a compact and robust instrument design.
• Achieved high throughput due to the birefringent interferometer.

Conclusions:

• The developed Fourier transform imaging spectropolarimeter offers significant advantages over previous instruments.
• The instrument provides a powerful tool for real-time polarization analysis with spectral and spatial information.
• Its compact, robust nature and high throughput make it suitable for diverse applications.