Simulation of speckle complex amplitude: advocating the linear model

The basic convolution integral, Uf = Uo crossed circle h where Uo is a random object complex amplitude and h the impulse response of the system under consideration, serves to model the observed speckle field Uf. Depending on the choice of h, the simulated field is an objective or a subjective speckle pattern. The computation makes use of two consecutive Fast Fourier Transforms. In the reported examples, the object function represents a pure phase diffuser ruled by a uniform distribution. The probability density functions (PDF) of the simulated intensity and phase patterns fit very well with their analytical counterparts obtained under the classical Gaussian hypotheses. Phase maps exhibit the awaited singularities. Moreover, elements of second order statistics, as the autocorrelation functions, are in very good agreement too. Furthermore, subtle effects, as the dip of contrast in the focused image plane of partially developed speckle patterns, are also suitably disclosed. The linear model thus appears, all together, as conceptually easy, very flexible, computationally simple, very accurate for a wide range of experiments, and endowed with excellent predictive and speculative potentials.