Use of Mueller and non-Mueller matrices to describe polarization properties of telescope-based polarimeters

P. H. Seagraves; David F. Elmore

doi:10.1117/12.186674

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14 September 1994 Use of Mueller and non-Mueller matrices to describe polarization properties of telescope-based polarimeters

P. H. Seagraves, David F. Elmore

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Proceedings Volume 2265, Polarization Analysis and Measurement II; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.186674
Event: SPIE's 1994 International Symposium on Optics, Imaging, and Instrumentation, 1994, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Systems using optical elements such as linear polarizers, retarders, and mirrors can be represented by Mueller matrices. Some polarimeters include elements with time-varying polarization properties, multiple light beams, light detectors, and signal processing equipment. Standard Mueller matrix forms describing time-varying retarders, and beam splitters are presented, as well as non-Mueller matrices which describe detection and signal processing. These matrices provide a compact and intuitive mathematical description of polarimeter response which can aid in the refining of instrument designs.

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P. H. Seagraves and David F. Elmore "Use of Mueller and non-Mueller matrices to describe polarization properties of telescope-based polarimeters", Proc. SPIE 2265, Polarization Analysis and Measurement II, (14 September 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.186674

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