Work

Optimizing twisted partially coherent vortex beams for ground-based laser ablation propulsion in space

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: For ground-based laser ablation propulsion in space, achieving optimal or even threshold momentum coupling in laser-matter interaction is challenging due to linear and nonlinear effects during long-range atmospheric propagation. In this paper, the fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm for partially coherent beams is extended from linear to nonlinear propagation regimes. For a high-power twisted partially coherent vortex beam (TPCVB) propagating from the ground through the turbulent atmosphere to space orbit, we find that an optimal twist factor and coherence length exist to maximize the on-target intensity. Compared with partially coherent vortex beams (PCVBs), partially coherent beams (PCBs), and fully coherent beams (FCBs), TPCVBs exhibit superior target beam quality, while requiring a smaller initial beam width and lower initial power to reach threshold or optimal momentum coupling. The results obtained are helpful for laser ablation propulsion applications in space using ground-based laser systems.

Source: Optics Express

DOI: 10.1364/oe.618322

Authors: Jiameng Zhao, Yu Deng, Zhixiang Zhang, Xiaoqing Li, Xiaoling Ji

Institutions: Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu Aeronautic Polytechnic University

Language: English

Topic: Orbital Angular Momentum in Optics

Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,270

Funder: National Natural Science Foundation of China