Ultraviolet interstellar linear polarization. IV. Cross-calibration between the wisconsin ultraviolet photo-polarimeter experiment and the faint object spectrograph

Geoffrey C. Clayton, Louisiana State University
Michael J. Wolff, Space Science Institute
R. G. Allen, The University of Arizona
B. L. Babler, University of Wisconsin-Madison
M. R. Meade, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Kenneth H. Nordsieck, University of Wisconsin-Madison
C. M. Anderson, University of Wisconsin-Madison
P. G. Martin, L’Institut Canadien d’Astrophysique Théorique
D. C.B. Whittet, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Abstract

The Wisconsin Ultraviolet Photo-Polarimeter Experiment (WUPPE) and the Faint Object Spectrograph (FOS) started gathering UV spectropolarimetry in 1990. Each observed a wide range of polarimetrically interesting objects before being retired. This paper examines the polarimetric calibration of each instrument and compares the absolute calibrations through the use of the limited sample of "standard stars" observed by both instruments. In general, there is good agreement between the FOS and WUPPE results at the 2σ statistical level. Data from each instrument can be compared directly on a straightforward basis. © 1997 American Astronomical Society.