Simulating the photon stream of a real thermal light source.

Abstract

We present a computer algorithm capable of simulating the photon stream and the corresponding temporal photon statistics of thermal light sources. The algorithm implements realistic experimental conditions, incorporating the relevant parameters of the source as well as of the detection process. The code is verified by comparing the temporal photon autocorrelation function computed from the simulations to the one measured with a real thermal light source. In view of the renewed interest for intensity interferometry in astronomy and the life sciences, such simulations become increasingly relevant.