Robust estimation of Stokes parameters with a partial liquid-crystal polarimeter under thermal drift

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Polarimetry
• Remote Sensing

Background:

• Polarized light contains valuable physical information.
• Traditional polarimetry uses Stokes parameters (S0, S1, S2, S3) estimated via CCD sensors and polarimeters.
• Liquid-crystal variable retarders (LCVRs) in polarimeters are temperature-sensitive, requiring frequent calibration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a robust and accurate method for measuring Stokes parameters of partially linearly polarized light.
• To overcome the limitations of temperature-dependent LCVR calibration in polarimetry.
• To enable reliable polarization measurements in applications where temperature control is not feasible.

Main Methods:

• Proposed a novel self-calibration principle for polarization measurement.
• Developed a method for estimating Stokes parameters independent of precise polarimeter retardation values.
• Utilized a polarimeter with a liquid-crystal variable retarder (LCVR).

Main Results:

• The developed method accurately measures Stokes parameters without requiring knowledge of LCVR retardation values.
• The self-calibration approach eliminates the need for regular LCVR recalibration.
• Demonstrated independence from accurate retardation values, simplifying real-time applications.

Conclusions:

• The proposed self-calibration method offers a robust solution for Stokes parameter estimation.
• This technique enhances the practicality of polarimetry in variable temperature environments.
• Significantly reduces calibration overhead for real-time and remote sensing applications.