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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
13:02
Three-dimensional Particle Tracking Velocimetry for Turbulence Applications: Case of a Jet Flow
Published on: February 27, 2016
Vortex beam propagation through atmospheric turbulence and topological charge conservation
1Department of Physics and Optical Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. gjgbur@uncc.edu
Summary
Vortex beams carrying information are robust against atmospheric turbulence. Their topological charge can be used for optical communications, despite some limitations.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Atmospheric Physics
Background:
- Atmospheric turbulence distorts light propagation, posing challenges for optical communication systems.
- Vortex beams possess unique properties like orbital angular momentum, making them candidates for advanced optical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To simulate and analyze the propagation of vortex beams through atmospheric turbulence.
- To evaluate the robustness of the topological charge as an information carrier.
- To discuss the feasibility of using vortex beams in optical communications.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations of vortex beam propagation.
- Analysis of beam characteristics under varying turbulence conditions (weak-to-strong).
Main Results:
- The topological charge of vortex beams remains a stable characteristic even in strong atmospheric turbulence.
- This robustness suggests potential for reliable information encoding and transmission.
Conclusions:
- The topological charge of vortex beams is a resilient property suitable for optical communication.
- Further investigation into the advantages and limitations of this approach is warranted for practical implementation.
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