Propagation Regimes of Millimeter Laser Beams in a Kerr-nonlinear Turbulent Medium

Key Points

• This research explores theoretical models for laser beam behavior in Kerr-nonlinear turbulent environments. It focuses on identifying distinct propagation regimes.
• Theoretical framework using diffraction-beam tubes and diffraction rays.
• Analysis of the evolution of light inhomogeneities due to high-power laser pulses.
• Derivation of an equation for squared beam effective radius.
• Identified three regimes of propagation: self-focusing leading to beam collapse, self-channeling over distance, and turbulent propagation.
• Derived an equation for squared beam effective radius relevant for practical applications in nonlinear atmospheric optics.