Vectorial analysis of polarization issues in multi-axial nulling interferometers for exoplanet detection

We show the theoretical limitations of a multi-axial nulling interferometer with respect to longitudinal polarization. We furthermore analyze the filtering capabilities of a single-mode fiber in this case.

Design of a polarization nulling interferometer for exoplanet detection

We present the design of a new testbed experiment to demonstrate nulling interferometry using polarization properties. This three-beam set-up is perfectly symmetric with respect to the number of reflections and transmissions and should therefore allow a high rejection ratio in a wide spectral band.