Stokes Parameters are a set of values used to describe the polarization state of light. They provide a comprehensive representation of the intensity, polarization, and orientation of a light wave. The four Stokes parameters are:

  1. I – total intensity,

  2. Q – difference in intensity between horizontal and vertical polarizations,

  3. U – difference in intensity at +45° and -45° polarizations,

  4. V – circular polarization component (right or left circular). These parameters are fundamental in fields like optics, remote sensing, and quantum mechanics.

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Free-Space Optical Sensing Using Vector Beam Spectra

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Vector beams are spatial modes that have spatially inhomogeneous states of polarization. Any light beam is a linear combination of vector beams, the coefficients of which comprise a vector beam “spectrum.” In this work, through numerical calculations, a novel method of free-space optical sensing is demonstrated using vector beam spectra, which are shown to be experimentally measurable via Stokes polarimetry. As proof of concept, vector beam spectra are numerically calculated for various beams and beam obstructions.

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