The spatial-temporal evolution of the far field irradiance distribution from a Gaussian beam due to atmospheric turbulence in the boundary layer

Abstract

The use of high spatial resolution imagery of the far-field irradiance distribution of a 532nm laser is being used to confirm the spatial power spectrum of atmospheric turbulence under a range of different turbulence conditions. The analysis of the temporal and spatial evolution of this irradiance distribution, using a fast framing camera, aims to validate phase screen models and provide an alternate means of measuring a path integrated inner scale. This process will enable the quantification of the impact of boundary layer atmospheric turbulence upon the long-range calibration of Electro-Optic imaging systems and laser communication systems.