A review of underwater skylight polarization detection

Underwater skylight polarization detection, as an important branch of underwater polarization detection and a cutting-edge technology at the intersection of optics and marine science, has received extensive attention and research in recent years. This review aims to comprehensively revisit the research progress in underwater skylight polarization detection, with a focus on analyzing the distribution characteristics of skylight polarization in underwater environments, the current development of polarization imaging devices, and their applications. Firstly, the article introduces the current research status of polarization distribution patterns of underwater skylight, explores the polarization characteristics of underwater light under different water quality and environmental conditions, and analyzes the polarization distribution laws of skylight in water under different influencing factors. Secondly, the technological progress of polarization imaging devices in recent years was reviewed, including polarization sensors, polarization imagers, and their applications in underwater environments. The component structures and performance characteristics of various polarization detection devices are analyzed, and emphasis is placed on their practical application effects within underwater detection systems. Through in-depth analysis of these two parts, this article summarizes the current status and future development directions of underwater sky polarization detection technology, emphasizing the broad application prospects of polarization detection in underwater imaging, environmental monitoring, and target recognition.