OPTI 586 Polarization in Optical Design

Polarization in Optical Design (OPTI 586). Begins with quantitative descriptions of coherent polarization states and linear light-matter interactions using Jones calculus. Polarization properties and common polarization elements are identified using a physical interpretation of Jones matrix eigenanalysis. A polarization ray tracing formalism is introduced as an extension of conventional 2D Jones calculus into 3D. A special case of a unitary operator is used to track the transverse plane rotations through refraction and reflection at interfaces of an optical system. Geometric optics principles of wavefront aberrations are generalized to a Jones pupil and a polarization-dependent point spread function. Polarization aberrations from geometric effects, such as those found in corner cube retroreflectors, are differentiated from Fresnel aberrations. In a final project, students perform a polarization ray trace of multi-surface optical designs to quantify polarization aberrations. In a final report, students discuss the engineering trade-offs of common mitigation strategies.