Overview of the Polarization Lab

Light travels as a wave with oscillating electric and magnetic fields. If we observe the behavior of the electric field over time we can observe the electric field tracing out an ellipse. The ellipticity and orientation of this ellipse define the polarization state of light. Here in the Polarization Lab, we use this fundamental property of light to understand our atmosphere, enable a more complete quantification of light-matter interactions, and optimize classification algorithms. Every member of this lab will grow their expertise in Image Science, Optical Engineering, and Mathematics.

“Science is built up of facts, as a house is built of stones; but an accumulation of facts is no more a science than a heap of stones is a house.”

J. Henri Poincaré