Work

Coherent optical imaging of moving objects hidden in a heavily scattering random medium

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Experimental results are presented that provide insight into the physics of statistical imaging in heavily scattering random media based on measured speckle correlations as a function of the change in position of a moving object. In this way, definitive interpretation of a rather complex and earlier theory is achieved, making this work an experimental complement to that theory paper []. Motion could be natural, where the set of positions is estimated or separately obtained, or directed, where a mechanical stage can be used to adjust the object's position. In the experiment, a coherent laser illuminates two scattering diffusers, while an object is translated between them in the resulting speckled field and images are collected in a transmission configuration. Results are shown for various objects of differing size and geometry, allowing the theory to be validated and interpreted with new understanding. This work demonstrates imaging opportunities, and applications include material characterization, environmental imaging and sensing, and deep-tissue imaging.

Source: Physical Review A

DOI: 10.1103/physreva.111.043503

Authors: Ryan L. Hastings, David W. Alexander, Kevin J. Webb

Institution: Purdue University West Lafayette

Language: English

Topic: Random lasers and scattering media

Subfield: Acoustics and Ultrasonics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,675

Funders: National Science Foundation, National Nuclear Security Administration, Air Force Office of Scientific Research