Analysis of the uncertainties in the determination of the Stokes parameters

Abstract

The study of the solar magnetic field is of great importance for our high-tech society. It is the key driver of many solar phenomena and consequently has a huge impact on the terrestrial space environment. A better understanding of the Sun's magnetic field is fundamental to understand better how the Sun influences the Earth. Therefore, the development of technologies for studying the Sun is essential. In particular, the methods to measure the solar magnetic field using ground-based or space-borne telescopes. The most reliable and accurate technique for solar magnetic field measurements is based on spectropolarimetry, i.e., the characterization of the solar spectrum in terms of intensity and polarization (Stokes vector). INPE's solar physics group is developing a spectropolarimeter through the Galileo Solar Space Telescope (GSST) Project. Within a master's project, the GSST capabilities to determine the Stokes vector and the related uncertainties are investigated. The proposal is that during the State of Sao Paulo Research Foundation exchange program (FAPESP/BEPE exchange program), the master student will visit the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS/Germany). MPS is one of the world-leading institutes for spectropolarimetry, involved in the concept, design, integration, operation, and scientific analysis of ground and space-based instruments. The candidate will have the opportunity for interaction with different projects in all those different phases. The master student will be introduced to all methods and technologies used at MPS and compare it to the ones applied at INPE. The results of this study will not only be of great importance for the master's project but also contribute to the GSST project as a whole. (AU)