Polarization singularity anisotropy: determining monstardom

TL;DR

This paper classifies polarization singularities called C points into three types based on anisotropy and azimuth parameters, providing insights into their morphology and distribution in random fields.

Contribution

It introduces a new classification scheme for C point singularities based on anisotropy and azimuth parameters, linking morphology to polarization properties.

Findings

C points are classified into lemons, stars, and monstars.

Morphology depends on anisotropy and azimuth parameters.

Distribution of morphologies in random fields is analyzed.

Abstract

C points, that is isolated points of circular polarization in transverse fields of varying polarization, are classified morphologically into three distinct types, known as lemons, stars and monstars. These morphologies are interpreted here according to two natural parameters associated with the singularity, namely the anisotropy of the C point, and the polarization azimuth on the anisotropy axis. In addition to providing insight into singularity morphology, this observation applies to the densities of the various morphologies in isotropic random polarization speckle fields.