Fractal generation using optical feedback with incoherent gain

We present an optical system for the spontaneous generation of self-similar fractal patterns. The system configuration is that of a ring cavity contai ning a lens array to form multiple, but laterally displaced, images. An ima ge intensifier provides optical gain to overcome the round trip loss. The f ractal properties of the intensity distributions both in and near the image planes are examined using a box counting technique. (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.