Degree of polarization for single-photon beam in a turbulent atmosphere

The polarization fluctuations of single-photon beam propagation through the slant path turbulent atmosphere are studied. The Stokes operators and the degree of polarization of single-photon beam in a turbulent atmosphere are obtained. It is shown by analytical calculations, that the quantum degree of polarization of linearly polarization light is a decrease function of the atmospheric turbulence strength and the propagation distance for lower detection photon number.

Research Highlights
► We discuss the polarization fluctuations of single-photon beam propagation through the slant path turbulent atmosphere.
► We obtain the Stokes operators and the degree of polarization in a turbulent atmosphere.
► The degree of polarization is a decrease function of the atmospheric turbulence strength and the propagation distance for lower detection photon number.