Fractional Fourier transform for partially coherent Gaussian-Schell model beams

The fractional Fourier transform (FRT) is applied to partially coherent twisted anisotropic Gaussian-Schell model (GSM) beams based directly on the cross-spectral density. An analytical and concise formula is derived for the cross-spectral density of partially coherent twisted anisotropic GSM beams passing through a FRT system in terms of the tensor method. The corresponding tensor ABCD law for performing a FRT is obtained. The connection between the FRT formula and the generalized Collins formula for partially coherent beams is discussed. The formulas derived provide a powerful tool for analyzing and calculating the FRTs of partially coherent beams. (C) 2002 Optical Society of America.