Simulation of Coherent Beam Propagation in Laboratory and Numerical Experiments: A Comparison of Results

Abstract

This paper presents the results of processing and systematizing data from laboratory and numerical experiments to correct the distortions of laser radiation propagating through a randomly inhomogeneous medium. The information obtained allows for an accurate estimation of the effectiveness of compensating for turbulent fluctuations in the refractive index along the beam propagation path. Experimentally derived radiation parameters were compared with corresponding values calculated using an optical system model. Limitations of the numerical simulation, stemming from inherent model constraints, were identified, as were discrepancies between experimental and theoretical results, and a reason for these discrepancies was provided.

Keywords

• adaptive optics system
• atmospheric turbulence
• numerical model
• laboratory experiment