Scientific and Industrial Liquid Crystal Polarimetry Applications
Summary Because the human eye is insensitive to polarization, valuable optical information often goes unnoticed. However, polarimetry—the measurement of a light wave’s polarization state—is crucial in fields such as biology, chemistry, astronomy, and remote sensing. This paper explores methods for accurately determining the retardance value and fast axis position of an unknown waveplate and highlights […]
Liquid Crystal in Precision Optical Devices
Summary While liquid crystal technology is widely known for display applications, its role in scientific and engineering fields is rapidly expanding. Liquid crystal devices (LCDs) are now critical for beam steering, wavefront modulation, and polarization switching in precision optical systems. Unlike traditional flat-panel displays, high-performance liquid crystal optics require specialized construction techniques to achieve superior […]
Achromatic Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Polarization Rotator
Summary Precise polarization rotation with minimal polarization purity loss is essential for optical switching, polarimetry, and microscopy. Traditional liquid crystal (LC) polarization rotators enable non-mechanical tuning, but their performance is limited to specific wavelengths. Ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) devices, however, offer faster response times and can switch between two orthogonal polarization states. By placing an […]
Basic Polarization Techniques and Devices
Meadowlark Optics Basic Polarization Techniques and Devices © 2005 Meadowlark Optics, Inc. This application note briefly describes polarized light, retardation and a few of the tools used to manipulate the polarization state of light. Also included are descriptions of basic component combinations that provide common light manipulation tools such as optical isolators, light attenuators, polarization […]
Inouye Solar Telescope
Meadowlark Optics The National Science Foundation’s Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST), located on the island of Maui, Hawaii, stands as the largest solar telescope globally. It’s dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of the Sun’s explosive phenomena, with a primary focus on observing magnetic fields. Recently Meadowlark built an optic called Andre as well as […]
