Analysis of polarized light with NICMOS

Dean C. Hines, Gary D. Schmidt, Glenn Schneider

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

30 Scopus citations

Abstract

The Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) aboard the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) contains optics in Cameras 1 and 2 (NIC1 and NIC2) that enable imaging polarimetry at ∼1 and 2 μm, respectively, with unprecedented spatial detail. Preflight thermal vacuum tests revealed that the three polarizers in each camera have unique polarizing efficiencies and that the rotational orientations within each set depart from the nominal 120° intervals. To properly interpret polarimetric data obtained with these optical systems, a reduction algorithm was developed which differs from the standard approach used for ideal polarizers. We discuss this technique, its successful application to selected NICMOS observations, and the uncertainty distributions associated with three-and four-polarizer schemes. We also present information on the NICMOS instrumental polarization, the nature and origin of image artifacts in the polarized images, and suggest observational techniques for obtaining high-quality polarimetry with the instrument. With the large number of observations already taken and the exciting prospects for an extended mission with a retrofit closed-cycle turbine cooler, NICMOS will continue to produce high-resolution imaging polarimetry in the near-infrared for many years to come.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)983-995
Number of pages13
JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Volume112
Issue number773
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2000

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Space and Planetary Science

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Analysis of polarized light with NICMOS'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this