Abstract

The model of partially coherent annular beams with linear non-uniformity field profile in the x direction is set up. The analytic expressions for the average intensity and the centre of gravity of decentred partially coherent annular beams propagating through atmospheric turbulence along a slant path are derived. The propagation equation governing the position of the intensity maximum is also given. It is found that the beam non-uniformity is amended gradually as the propagation distance and the strength of turbulence increase. The centre of beam gravity is independent of both the propagation distance and the turbulence. However, the position of the intensity maximum changes versus the propagation distance and the turbulence, and is farthest away from the propagation z-axis at a certain propagation distance. When the propagation distance is large enough, the position of the intensity maximum reaches an asymptotic value which increases with decreasing the zenith angle and is largest for the free space case. When the propagation distance is large enough, the position of the intensity maximum is not on the propagation z-axis, and is nearer to the propagation z-axis than the centre of beam gravity.

© 2012 Optical Society of America