Abstract
A recently introduced class of scalar multi-Gaussian Schell-model (MGSM) beams is extended to the electromagnetic domain. The realizability conditions and the beam conditions for the parameters of the new source are established. The behavior of the polarization properties of the beam on propagation in free space and in first-order imaging systems is investigated. The formation of the uniform polarization state in the central part of the transverse beam cross-section is explored in detail.
