Planet-Star-Observer Geometry for Polarized Scattering in Exoplanet Atmospheres

This conceptual illustration depicts the geometric configuration of a star, exoplanet, and observer relevant to modeling polarized light scattering in exoplanet atmospheres. The phase angle (α) shown determines the illumination fraction and scattering angle, which are critical for predicting mid-infrared polarization signatures. Created as part of the research study "Mid-Infrared Polarization Signatures of Exoplanetary Clouds."