Characterization of a laser beam in turbulent atmosphere

We investigated Gaussian beam propagation through the turbulent atmosphere. The solutions of the linear and nonlinear unsteady 3D Navier -- Stokes equations have been used for modeling of turbulent fluctuations. Parabolic equation method has been applied for study of the intensity variations of the beam. Numerous examples of modeling are presented. Results may be applied to the study of turbulent fluctuations as well as of distortions of object images.