Turbulence Simulation: On Phase and Deflector Screen Generation

Abstract : This report examines the topic of phase screen generation and introduces an alternative method of modeling propagation through turbulence based on an extended raytrace method involving passage through three-dimensionally varying refractive turbulence. The mathematics of propagation through turbulence are thoroughly detailed, including several derivations often left as exercises for the reader in other documentation. Chapter 2 contains an analysis of the interrelationships between Fourier transforms, Fourier series, and Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) methods. These methods are used in chapter 3 to describe means of transforming between common mathematical forms of turbulence spectra used in the literature and standard engineering forms for employing FFTs. Chapter 4 concludes with an analysis of phase screen and deflector screen generation and usage.