Changes in the spectrum of Gaussian Schell-model beams propagating through turbulent atmosphere

Based on the extended Huygens–Fresnel principle, the spectrum of Gaussian Schell-model (GSM) beams propagating through turbulent atmosphere is derived analytically. It is shown that, if the scaling law is valid, the normalized spectrum S(ω) of GSM beams propagating through turbulent atmosphere is the same as the normalized source spectrum S(0)(ω), whether GSM source is quasi-homogenous or not. On the other hand, if the scaling law fails, S(ω) of GSM is different from S(0)(ω). The structure constant of the refractive index, transverse coordinate of observation point and spatial correlation length of the source affect the spectrum, which is illustrated numerically.