Snapshot imaging polarimeter using calcite wedge prisms

Two-dimensional state of polarization (SOP) mapping of light plays an important role in many fields, including po-larimetric testing of optoelectronic devices, machine vision, and remote sensing. To enhance the measurement speed, we have developed a novel method of taking snapshot measurements of two-dimensional SOPs by use of birefringent prisms [1]. The major features of this method are that no mechanically-moving components, such as a rotating analyzer, are used, and that all the parameters related to the spatial distribution of SOP can be determined simultaneously and independently from a single interference pattern. The performance principle of this method is experimentally demonstrated by use of thin wedge prisms made of calcite.