Polarization characteristics of aberrated partially coherent flat-topped beam propagating through turbulent atmosphere

The effects of turbulent atmosphere on the spectral degree of polarization (SDP) of aberrated partially coherent flat-topped beam were studied. Analytical formula for the SDP was derived. Detailed analyses of the SDP demonstrate that it is strongly affected by astigmatic aberration when propagating through turbulent atmosphere. The effect of source parameters such as correlation length and order of flatness as well as the strength of the atmospheric turbulence effect (Cn2) on the SDP were analysed. The analyses are illustrated by numerical examples.