Generalized beam-propagation factor of partially coherent beams propagating through hard-edged apertures

The second-order intensity moments and beam-propagation factor (M-2 factor) of partially coherent beams have been generalized to include the case of hard-edged diffraction. A laser beam with amplitude modulation and phase fluctuation and a Gaussian Schell-model beam are taken as two typical examples of partially coherent beams. Analytical expressions for the generalized M-2 factor are derived. (C) 2002 Optical Society of America.