Image quality in an optical system operating in partially coherent light: effect of parabolic motion

Results of investigations on an optical system performance as affected by parabolic image motion have been presented in graphic form. The analysis has been performed using Schell's theorem, which occurs in the theory of partial coherence, under the assumption of scalar diffraction theory. Diffraction figure broadening along the direction of motion has been plotted for besinc and Gaussian forms of coherence functions across the circular aperture. Results of the present paper in case of besinc correlation have been shown to be identical with the diffraction images of uniform incoherent bright circular disks in the presence of parabolic motion. Hence the analysis of the present paper is also useful for persons engaged in work concerning aerial reconnaissance etc.