Polarization Selective Wavelength Tunable Filter

Abstract

In conventional color CCD cameras, each color pixel consists of different pixels that record the red, green or blue light. However, for special applications such as in astronomy, it is desirable to take pictures at a number of specific wavelengths. In this work, we present the design and fabrication of a liquid crystal wavelength tunable filter which is also able to detect the polarization state of the light. The design consists of a 4-stage Lyot–Öhman filter with an additional liquid crystal cell in front of the filter. By applying the right voltage on the first cell, one can choose the polarization component of the transmitted light.