Intensity distribution and coherence property for the broadband Gaussian Schell-model array beams in free space

The intensity distribution and the equal-time complex degree of coherence for the broadband Gaussian Schell-model array beams with different bandwidth propagating in free space are analyzed by the numerical calculation. Results show that the intensity distribution for the broadband Gaussian Schell-model array beams by uncorrelated superposition is rarely affected by the bandwidth; the intensity distribution in the far field for the broadband Gaussian Schell-model array beams by correlated superposition is affected by the bandwidth more obviously than that in the near field. With the increasing of the propagation distance, differences in the equal-time complex degree of coherence for the broadband Gaussian Schell-model array beams with different bandwidth become prominent.

Research highlights
► We studied the characteristics of broadband Gaussian Schell-model array beams in free space.
► Its intensity distribution by uncorrelated superposition is rarely affected by the bandwidth.
► Its intensity distribution by correlated superposition is more affected by the bandwidth.
► Differences in the equal-time complex degree of coherence become prominent in the far field.