Observation of light transmission through randomly rough glass surfaces beyond the critical angle

Abstract

In this series of experiments we study the transmission of laser light through a randomly rough interface between air and ground-glass diffusers. We verify the refractive index suppression predicted by Dogariu and Boreman [Opt. Lett.21, 701 (1996)]. We also observe and quantify transmission beyond the critical angle for total internal reflection defined by Snell's law. In particular, these results may be applied to the ANITA experiment, which detects astrophysical neutrino interactions via radio waves produced under the ice. These radio waves must pass through the rough surfaces of the Antarctic ice sheets and shelves.