Does a Polarizer Alter the Shape of Airy Disks in Optical Systems?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether the use of a polarizer in front of a pinhole affects the shape of the Airy disk formed in optical systems. Participants explore the implications of diffraction patterns, specifically in relation to scalar and vector diffraction, and the conditions under which a polarizer might influence the outcome.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if a polarizer changes the shape of the Airy disk, suggesting it might result in an hourglass shape.
  • Another participant argues that the far field diffraction pattern is determined by the Fourier transform of the aperture function, implying that a polarizer should not affect the shape unless there is spatially varying polarization in the incident radiation.
  • A different participant states that if only a pinhole aperture is used, scalar diffraction is sufficient, suggesting no change in the Airy disk shape. However, they note that using a lens or focusing mirror could introduce complexities due to vector diffraction, especially at large numerical apertures.
  • Links to additional resources on vector diffraction are provided to support the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the impact of a polarizer on the shape of the Airy disk. While some argue it should not make a difference, others suggest that conditions such as the use of lenses may complicate the situation. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on the type of aperture and the complexity introduced by vector diffraction, which may not be fully addressed in the initial claims. There is also uncertainty regarding the effects of polarization on the diffraction pattern.

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When an airy disk is formed, does using a polarizer in front of the pinhole change the shape of the disk?
 
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zincshow said:
When an airy disk is formed, does using a polarizer in front of the pinhole change the shape of the disk?
No responses? Well I'm going to guess yes, and hourglass shaped. I might be able to test this for you with my telescope and a lunar filter...
 
It shouldn't make any difference. The far field diffraction pattern is just the Fourier transform of the aperture function, which in this case is a circular hole. Unless there's spatially varying polarisation in the incident radiation.

I'm not completely certain - I'd be interested in seeing your test, Russ.
 
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zincshow said:
When an airy disk is formed, does using a polarizer in front of the pinhole change the shape of the disk?

If it just a pinhole aperture, then no, scalar diffraction suffices. If you are using a lens (or focusing mirror), then yes, especially if the numerical aperture is large. Vector diffraction is considerably more complex than scalar diffraction, here's a few links:

https://www.osapublishing.org/josaa/abstract.cfm?URI=josaa-35-4-526
https://www.osapublishing.org/oe/abstract.cfm?uri=oe-12-12-2670
https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/978-3-540-48471-4_6.pdf
https://spiral.imperial.ac.uk/bitst...a high numerical aperture focusing system.pdf
 
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