Influence of Laser Coherence on Reference-Matched Laser Doppler Velocimetry.

The probe length is investigated under the influence of the coherence length of Gaussian and Lorentzian spectra for the case that the focal point and the point of highest interference are matched in a strongly focused laser Doppler velocimetry setup (LDV). Isosurfaces of a -3 dB drop of the intensity maximum are estimated and suggested as an alternative, comprehensible way to define probe volumes. In the end, the equations are applied for an exemplary lidar setup to show the reduction of requirements for the coherence length of the laser source in comparison to unmatched cases. (c) 2016 Optical Society of America