The Hertz/VPM polarimeter: Design and first light observations
Abstract
We present first results of Hertz/VPM, the first submillimeter polarimeter employing the dual Variable-delay Polarization Modulator (dual-VPM). This device differs from previously used polarization modulators in that it operates in translation rather than mechanical rotation. We discuss the basic theory behind this device, and its potential advantages over the commonly used half wave plate (HWP). The dual-VPM was tested both at the Submillimeter Telescope Observatory (SMTO) and in the lab. In each case we present a detailed description of the setup. We discovered nonideal behavior in the system. This is at least in part due to properties of the VPM wire grids (diameter, spacing) employed in our experiment. Despite this, we found that the dual-VPM system is robust, operating with high efficiency and low instrumental polarization. This device is well suited for air and space-borne applications.
Cite
@article{arxiv.0803.3759,
title = {The Hertz/VPM polarimeter: Design and first light observations},
author = {Megan Krejny and David Chuss and Christian Drouet d'Aubigny and Dathon Golish and Martin Houde and Howard Hui and Craig Kulesa and Robert F. Loewenstein and S. Harvey Moseley and Giles Novak and George Voellmer and Chris Walker and Ed Wollack},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:0803.3759},
year = {2009}
}
Comments
31 pages, 11 figures, 2 tables