Astrophysical Polarimetry of Cosmological Sources

Abstract

Kostelecky and Mewes have recently shown that sensitive constraints can be placed on some aspects of Lorentz symmetry violation using certain astronomical data on high-redshift sources. Here, I introduce that data in its astronomical context, making it clear that these data are robust and accurate for their purpose. In particular, I explain that spatially extended scattered light from obscured quasars leads to a centrosymmetric scattering polarization, with polarization position angle independent of wavelength. Evidentally, these relationships aren't spoiled by propagation effects as the photons cross the universe.

Comments: 7 pages, 4 figures, Second Meeting on CPT and Lorentz Symmetry, Bloomington, IN (Aug. 2001)