Wave optics simulation of partially coherent beams

Xifeng Xiao; David Voelz

doi:10.1117/12.618856

12 September 2005 Wave optics simulation of partially coherent beams

Xifeng Xiao, David Voelz

Proceedings Volume 5892, Free-Space Laser Communications V; 58920Q (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.618856
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

We describe a numerical, wave optics approach for simulating the propagation of a partially coherent beam. The approach requires the application of a succession of phase screens at the transmit end of the link and the summation of the resulting intensity profiles at the receiving end. To test the approach, a phase screen formulation for a Gaussian Schell-model beam was derived using a Gaussian random phase screen where its parameters are related to a form of the spatial coherence function for the transmittance. The numerical model was applied to several cases of propagation through vacuum and atmospheric turbulence and the resulting average beam intensity profile is shown to be nearly identical to the profile predicted by analytical results for the Gaussian Schell-model beam. Finally, the scintillation index of a coherent beam was investigated and the numerical result was found to generally follow the theoretical result, especially for source sizes that are relatively small or relatively larger. The model developed in this paper can be applied to analysis and design of free space optical laser links that utilize various partially coherent beams.

Citation Download Citation

Xifeng Xiao and David Voelz "Wave optics simulation of partially coherent beams", Proc. SPIE 5892, Free-Space Laser Communications V, 58920Q (12 September 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.618856

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