Changes in the polarization ellipse of random electromagnetic beams propagating through the turbulent atmosphere

During the last few years, changes in the state of polarization of a class of random electromagnetic beams (so-called electromagnetic Gaussian Schell-model beams), propagating in free space have been investigated. In the present paper, we extend the analysis to propagation of such beams in homogeneous, isotropic, non-absorbing atmospheric turbulence. We find that the effects of turbulence on the state of polarization are most significant when the atmospheric fluctuations are weak or moderate, whereas in a strong regime of atmospheric fluctuations the state of polarization of the beam returns to its original state. Our results might find possible useful applications for sensing, imaging and communication through the atmosphere.

Keywords:

• Atmospheric turbulence
• Random electromagnetic beams
• State of polarization

Acknowledgements

The research was supported by the US Air Force Office of Scientific Research under grant No. F49260-03-1-0138, by the Engineering Research Program of the Office of Basic Energy Sciences at the US Department of Energy under grant No. DE-FG02-2ER45992, and by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRC) under contract FA 9451-04-C-0296.