Generation of Gaussian Schell-model fields as mixtures of their coherent modes

Abstract

Gaussian Schell-model fields are examples of spatially partially coherent fields, which in recent years have found several unique applications. The existing techniques for generating Gaussian Schell-model (GSM) fields are based on introducing randomness in a spatially completely coherent field and are limited in terms of control and precision with which GSM fields can be generated. In contrast, we demonstrate an experimental technique that is based on the coherent mode representation of GSM fields. By generating individual coherent modes and mixing them in proportion fixed by their coherent mode representation, we experimentally demonstrate generation of several GSM fields. Since our technique involves only mixing of coherent eigenmodes and does not involve introducing randomness from outside, it provides much better control and precision with which GSM fields with a given set of parameter could be generated.