Generation of stochastic electromagnetic beams with complete controllable coherence

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Electromagnetism
• Wave Physics

Background:

• Controlling the coherence properties of light beams is crucial for various optical applications.
• Stochastic electromagnetic beams (SEBs) offer unique characteristics but precise coherence control remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate a stochastic electromagnetic beam (SEB) with independently controllable coherence in two perpendicular directions.
• To demonstrate a method for tuning the coherence degree of SEBs using spatial light modulators.

Main Methods:

• Utilized two crossed phase-only spatial light modulators to control SEB coherence.
• Adjusted the phase modulation magnitude to independently vary coherence along two directions.
• Employed Young's interference experiment to measure beam coherence properties.
• Determined the beam propagation factor to characterize beam quality.

Main Results:

• Successfully generated an SEB with fully controllable coherence.
• Demonstrated independent control of coherence along two mutually perpendicular directions.
• Experimental measurements of coherence properties and propagation factor aligned with theoretical predictions.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method enables precise and independent control over the coherence of stochastic electromagnetic beams.
• Experimental validation confirms the theoretical framework for generating and controlling SEBs.
• This work advances the understanding and application of partially coherent beams in optics.