Polarization Orientation Determination Algorithm Based on the Extremum of Moment of Inertia

Atmospheric polarization patterns are induced by scattering of unpolarized sunlight in the atmosphere and many insects can detect them by compound eyes to derive compass information. Several kinds of polarization navigation algorithms have been designed based on the working principles of the polarization vision of insects. In view of the shortcomings of the existing polarization navigation algorithms, a polarization orientation determination algorithm based on the extremum of moment of inertia is proposed. This algorithm detects the global symmetry of atmospheric polarization patterns of the whole sky to obtain the azimuth angle, so it is reliable and has strong anti-interference ability. The experimental results show that the polarization orientation determination algorithm is not sensitive to the interference of the thin clouds in the sky.