Light scattering by dust particles in microgravity: polarization and brightness imaging with the new version of the PROGRA2 instrument

• DOI: 10.1364/ao.41.000609
• Publication Date: 2007-08-17T12:30:58Z
• Authors: Jean-Baptiste Renard; Jean-Claude Worms; Thierry Lemaire; Edith Hadamcik; Nathalie Huret
• Keywords: Phase function; Forward scatter

A new version of the PROGRA2 instrument, dedicated to measuring polarization phase function various kinds solid particles, allows obtaining maps and brightness with a spatial resolution few tens micrometers. The measurements are conducted in microgravity during parabolic flights ensure random distribution orientation particles. results first two sessions presented. Comparison between Mie theory modeling for glass spheres shows that instrument works well accurate can be obtained even at small angles. Results irregularly shaped particles also