Generalized phase-conjugation system using partially-coherent light

A method of imaging through inhomogeneities using phase conjugation performed with partially-coherent light is described. The method is essentially the union of two complementary techniques, phase conjugation and superresolution by incoherent to coherent conversion. These two techniques are complementary, having both similarities and differences; the former requires coherent light, the latter incoherent. Both involve interferometric mixing of two light beams in a nonlinear medium. Both can be applied to image formation through inhomogeneities. Their theoretical capabilities and limitations are compared, and the possibility of a partially-coherent system embodying both techniques together is considered.<>