Abstract
We present a new solution of the paraxial equation based on the Pearcey functionwhich is related to the Airy function and describes diffraction about a cusp caustic. The Pearcey beam displays properties similar not only to Airy beams but also Gaussian and Bessel beams. These properties include an inherent auto-focusing effectas well as form-invariance on propagation and self-healing. We describe the theory of propagating Pearcey beams and present experimental verification of their auto-focusing and self-healing behaviour.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 18955-18966 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Optics Express |
Volume | 20 |
Issue number | 17 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2012 Aug 13 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics