Simultaneous detection of polarization states and wavefront by an angular variant micro-retarder-lens array

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Light Polarization
• Wavefront Sensing

Background:

• Accurate characterization of light polarization and wavefront is crucial for various scientific applications.
• Existing methods often lack simultaneous measurement capabilities or sufficient resolution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate simultaneous detection of polarization states and wavefront of light.
• To develop a novel optical element for advanced light analysis.
• To propose a calibration method for high-accuracy polarization measurements.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 7 × 7 array of angular variant micro-retarder-lenses.
• Developed a calibration method for precise polarization detection (ellipticity ±0.01, azimuth ±1.0°).
• Performed wavefront measurements with a resolution of 25 nm.

Main Results:

• Successfully achieved simultaneous detection of polarization states and wavefront.
• Determined the two-dimensional distribution of polarization states.
• Analyzed four types of structured light, including radially/azimuthally polarized beams and optical vortices.

Conclusions:

• The micro-retarder-lens array enables accurate and simultaneous characterization of light polarization and wavefront.
• This technology offers potential advancements in laser sciences, astrophysics, and ophthalmology.
• The developed sensing technology enhances the understanding of light properties.