Polarized Light and Polarimetry (OPTI 584). Begins with quantitative descriptions of coherent and incoherent polarization states and linear light-matter interactions using both Jones and Mueller calculus. Polarization properties and common polarization elements are identified using a physical interpretation of Jones matrix eigenanalysis and an incoherent addition of coherent states to understand Mueller matrix analysis. The Poincare sphere is used to describe the effects of common optical elements (e.g. the rotation of unitary retarders and the push/pull of Hermitian polarizers). Polarization elements are gifted to students so they can perform simple everyday experiments including a spring break assignment to measure sky polarization and compare to Rayleigh sky model predictions. Classic interference experiments are revisited to introduce polarization fringes where the polarization ellipse evolves due to relative optical path differences. Optical instrument concepts are surveyed including interferometers with polarimetric sensitivity, focal planes tiled with polarizers, heterodyned photo-elastic modulators, and rotating-retarder Mueller polarimeters. Calibration, validation, and reconstruction methods are introduced within the framework of singular-value decomposition. As a final assignment, students select a topic related to polarimetric observations, conduct a literature search, write a report, and present in class. Blind-peer-review feedback is facilitated at each phase of this assignment.
