Experimental generation of partially coherent Besinc pseudo-Schell model sources using a digital micromirror device

In this work, we report the first, to the best of our knowledge, experimental realization of the partially coherent Besinc pseudo-Schell model light source, which was recently proposed theoretically. We achieve this by displaying binary holograms on a fast-frame-rate digital micromirror device. These holograms encode the required pseudo-mode representation of the source in real time, allowing us to explore different topological charges and coherence lengths. We analyze the intensity profiles and self-focusing properties of the Besinc light source along the propagation direction. The experimental results are compared with theoretical predictions, finding an average two-dimensional correlation coefficient of R =0.974. Finally, the spatial coherence of the Besinc pseudo-Schell model source was experimentally measured using a Young’s interferometer at both the source plane and the focal plane. The measurements confirm that circular coherence is present at the source plane ( z =0); however, upon propagation, it is not conserved.