Performance of Scanning Ladar Imaging through Atmospheric Turbulence

The imaging performance of long range laser scanning system through atmospheric turbulence is examined using the concept of Modulus Transfer Function (MTF). The target is assumed to be within the Fresnel zone with considering long time and short time exposures. The effect of beam wander is described in terms of MTF. Our analysis indicates wave front tilt is a dominant factor for recovering high spatial frequencies. A physical optics simulation is employed to demonstrate the utility of the MTF approach and verify the theoretical model.