On the optimal ways to perform full Stokes measurements with a linear division-of-focal-plane polarimetric imager and a retarder

Estimating the full Stokes vector with a linear division of focal plane (DoFP) camera and a retarder requires at least two image acquisitions with different retarder settings. We determine the optimal settings (retardances and angles) that maximize estimation precision and demonstrate that they are identical in the presence of additive and Poisson shot noise. In addition, we show how to leverage measurement redundancy to improve spatial resolution in one direction and determine the retarder settings optimal for that purpose. (C) 2019 Optical Society of America