Variable-Delay Polarization Modulators for Cryogenic Millimeter-Wave Applications

We describe the design, construction, and initial validation of the variable-delay polarization modulator (VPM) designed for the PIPER cosmic microwave background polarimeter. The VPM modulates between linear and circular polarization by introducing a variable phase delay between orthogonal linear p...

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Published inNASA Center for AeroSpace Information (CASI). Misc. Resources
Main Authors Chuss, D T, Eimer, J R, Fixsen, D J, Hinderks, J, Kogut, A J, Lazear, J, Mirel, P, Switzer, E, Voellmer, G M, Wollack, E J
Format Web Resource
LanguageEnglish
Published Hampton NASA/Langley Research Center 12.05.2014
Subjects
Big Bang theory
Circular polarization
Cosmic microwave background
Delay
Flexing
Millimeter waves
Modulators
Polarimeters
Polarizers
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Summary:We describe the design, construction, and initial validation of the variable-delay polarization modulator (VPM) designed for the PIPER cosmic microwave background polarimeter. The VPM modulates between linear and circular polarization by introducing a variable phase delay between orthogonal linear polarizations. Each VPM has a diameter of 39 cm and is engineered to operate in a cryogenic environment (1.5 K). We describe the mechanical design and performance of the kinematic double-blade flexure and drive mechanism along with the construction of the high precision wire grid polarizers.
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