Adjustment method of an imaging Stokes polarimeter based on liquid crystal variable retarders

Abstract

The description of adjustment of an imaging Stokes polarimeter constructed and tested in our laboratory is presented. Our polarimeter's operation is based on six fast intensity distribution measurements realized in six different configurations of linear and circular analyzers. Using liquid crystal variable retarders (LCVRs) makes this construction compact and mechanically simple. However, new problems arise with proper azimuthal alignment as well as with proper LCVR voltage adjustment. Three basic steps of the adjustment procedure adapted to the specific construction of our polarimeter are described in detail. Some remarks concerning the critical parameters of the used CCD camera's parameters are also presented, as well as experimental verifications of the setup's accuracy acquired due to the proper adjustment process.