OPTICAL RESOLUTION THROUGH ATMOSPHERIC-TURBULENCE WITH FINITE OUTER SCALE

We present a theoretical calculation of the modulation transfer functi ons and integral resolution of a simple system of imaging through the atmosphere with a finite outer scale of turbulence. Two different mode ls of turbulence are studied. Inclusion of the finite outer scale is s hown to be necessary for quantitative estimates. The ''optimal'' lens diameter for the short exposure case is calculated. Our results signif icantly differ from those obtained for a pure power-law turbulence spe ctrum. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.