Comparison of wavebeam phase front retrieval methods based on iterative algorithm and irradiance moments

Two methods for phase front reconstruction of quasi-optical wavebeams are discussed. Both of them allow phase reconstruction using only wavebeam intensity measurements in a few cross sections. The first method applies the iterative convergence procedure for phase synthesis. The second one is based on averaged description of wavebeams, using the irradiance moments. By means of these two methods the field structures was reconstructed in some numerical and practical experiments in mm-range. Since the methods are based on general principles they may be used not only for microwaves, but also for optics and acoustics. It was shown that depending on measurement quality, wavebeam amplitude geometry and number of measured planes, one or another method is more preferable. The optimization of phase retrieval technique by combining iteration algorithm with irradiance moment method is proposed.