Anisotropic non-Kolmogorov turbulence phase screens with variable orientation

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Optics
• Astronomy

Background:

• Traditional phase screen generation methods often assume isotropic and Kolmogorov turbulence, limiting their applicability.
• Accurate modeling of atmospheric turbulence is crucial for adaptive optics and optical wave propagation studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a modified fast Fourier transform (FFT)-based subharmonic phase screen generation technique.
• To incorporate non-Kolmogorov and anisotropic turbulence characteristics into the model.
• To enable direct comparison with standard Kolmogorov, isotropic turbulence models.

Main Methods:

• Modification of existing FFT-based subharmonic phase screen generation.
• Inclusion of variable anisotropy angles orthogonal to the propagation direction.
• Specification of turbulence strength using a characteristic length analogous to the Fried parameter.

Main Results:

• The modified technique accurately accounts for non-Kolmogorov and anisotropic turbulence.
• The model allows for varying anisotropy angles and turbulence strengths.
• Accuracy comparable to existing FFT-based methods up to spectral exponents of 3.9.

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides a more versatile tool for simulating optical wave propagation through realistic atmospheric conditions.
• This advancement facilitates more accurate performance predictions for systems relying on adaptive optics.
• The technique offers a valuable approach for comparing different turbulence regimes.