Astronomical Polarimetry

Clear, comprehensive and concise introduction to astronomical polarimetry at all wavelengths - for graduate students and practising astronomers.

Jaap Tinbergen (Author)

9780521018586, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 22 August 2005

176 pages, 48 b/w illus. 6 tables 46 exercises
24.4 x 17 x 1 cm, 0.289 kg

'The book is produced to the high standard one expects from CUP, and is reasonably priced ... robust and attractive … It will … be hard to match the standard of this fine volume.' Ian Howarth, The Observatory

Radiation from astronomical objects generally shows some degree of polarization. Although this polarized radiation is usually only a small fraction of the total radiation, it often carries a wealth of information on the physical state and geometry of the emitting object and intervening material. Measurement of this polarized radiation is central to much modern astrophysical research. This handy volume provides a clear, comprehensive and concise introduction to astronomical polarimetry at all wavelengths. Starting from first principles and a simple physical picture of polarized radiation, the reader is introduced to all the key topics, including Stokes parameters, applications of polarimetry in astronomy, polarization algebra, polarization errors and calibration methods, and a selection of instruments (from radio to X-ray). The book is rounded off with a number of useful case studies, a collection of exercises, an extensive list of further reading and an informative index. This review of all aspects of astronomical polarization provides both an essential introduction for graduate students, and a valuable reference for practising astronomers.

1. Introduction
2. A description of fully polarized radiation
3. Polarization in astronomy
4. Polarization algebra and graphical methods
5. Instruments: principles
6. Instruments: implementations
7. Case studies
8. Exercises
Index.

Subject Areas: Applied optics [TTB], Astrophysics [PHVB], Astronomical observation: observatories, equipment & methods [PGG], Theoretical & mathematical astronomy [PGC]