Using Zodiacal Light for Spaceborne Calibration of Polarimetric Imagers

Area of Science:

• Space physics and remote sensing
• Polarimetry and optical instrumentation

Background:

• Spaceborne polarimetric imagers require accurate calibration for reliable data.
• Existing calibration methods can be complex and susceptible to terrestrial interference.
• Zodiacal light (ZL) is a persistent source of polarized light in space.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and validate a novel self-calibration method for spaceborne polarimetric imagers using zodiacal light.
• To develop a forward model and inverse problem formulation for ZL-based polarimetric calibration.
• To assess the feasibility of this method through simulations.

Main Methods:

• Derivation of a forward model for polarimetric image formation including ZL.
• Formulation of an inverse problem for polarimetric calibration and self-calibration.
• Development of an algorithm to solve the inverse problem.
• Simulation of polarized sky images with ZL, disturbances, and noise.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated the feasibility of using zodiacal light for polarimetric imager calibration via simulations.
• Developed a robust framework for polarimetric self-calibration in space.
• Showcased the potential for simultaneous cross-calibration of satellite constellations.

Conclusions:

• Zodiacal light provides a viable and stable target for calibrating spaceborne polarimetric imagers.
• The proposed method offers an effective solution for self-calibration, reducing reliance on external references.
• This technique enhances the accuracy and reliability of polarimetric data from space missions.