Analysis and refinement of intensity correlation imaging

Recent work in astronomical imaging has demonstrated a phase retrieval algorithm, coupled with a stochastic search algorithm that reduces the necessary integration times for intensity correlation imaging by many orders of magnitude and simultaneously determines the pixels that are to be constrained to zero intensity. The present paper conducts a detailed analysis of these algorithms, including the probabilistic structure of the stochastic search process. The understanding acquired leads to significant simplification and acceleration of the algorithms which may significantly advance astronomical science.