Statistical comparison of probability models of intensity fluctuation

Probability Density Functions (PDFs) describing intensity fluctuations of a propagated beam are necessary to reliably predict operation of Free-Space-Optical (FSO) systems. This becomes especially important when considering the tails of the distribution. For example, accuracy in the low-intensity tail is necessary in the design of FSO communication systems as it determines the probability of fade. Accuracy in the high-intensity portion of the tail is necessary for eye safety calculations and to prevent equipment damage. In this work, we evaluate PDF models considering the statistics of the fit to empirical data for point and distributed apertures for several values of Rytov variance. Based on p-values and level of significance, we compare the quality of the fit of common PDF models to empirical data. As part of this, we evaluate the transition of the best fit PDF as the aperture area is increased. Both simulated and measured data will be included in this analysis.