Polarization aberrations of laser radiation

Abstract

Polarization aberrations (PAs) of laser radiation, defined as distortions of the wave-polarization characteristics, are considered within the framework of wave theory. The parameters describing these aberrations are introduced. It is established that PAs already appear in the paraxial region. PAs of a thin lens are calculated using the method of wave-polarization matrices. It is shown that, under certain conditions, the polarization state is modified at the axis of the laser beam.