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Capabilities of POP

  • 20 July 2023
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Can POP model partially coherent sources?

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Best answer by Jeff.Wilde 22 July 2023, 20:12

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In general, I think the answer is no.  POP is based on diffraction propagation of monochromatic (or quasi-monochromatic), spatially coherent sources.  The complex wavefront amplitude (intensity magnitude and phase) is defined at a starting plane, and diffraction propagation occurs as the beam makes its way through the optical system.  Fresnel and/or Fraunhofer diffraction is mathematically described by 2D spatial superposition integrals.

On the other hand, partial spatial coherence is quantified by the mutual intensity function, and propagation of the mutual intensity requires calculation of a 4D superposition integral.

That being said, there are some ways to model the effects of partial coherence in OpticStudio.  For example, light from a spatially incoherent source of some diameter, upon propagation, will acquire a finite degree of coherence.  The coherence function in this case can be found by ray tracing as described here:

Simulation of Young's interference experiment via geometric ray tracing in OpticStudio

Regards,

Jeff

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Thank you Jeff for your detailed answer.

I now see the complexity in the question and will use your feedback as a guide to analyze this partial coherence scenario.

Regards,

Fran

 

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