Please explain the cause of the laser speckle pattern

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A user experimented with a laser pointer and a concave mirror, achieving a 5mm beam that spread over a 30cm area. The stationary irregular pattern observed when moving the beam is attributed to potential irregularities in the mirror or impurities in the laser's lens. The discussion suggests that this phenomenon may relate to laser speckle, prompting a recommendation to research the topic further on Wikipedia. The interaction highlights the complexities of laser optics and the effects of surface imperfections. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone interested in laser technology and its applications.
SF
I was playing with a laser pointer and a concave mirror and I managed to get a 5mm beam to spread over a 30cm area.
http://img361.imageshack.us/img361/1884/mspaintfg0.png
http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/1866/lpuc9.jpg
http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/3581/lp0ii9.jpg

The irregular pattern remained stationary even when I moved the beam, so I guess it's due to (a) irregularities in the mirror or (b) impurities in the laser's lens?
 
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I expect you are talking about a speckle pattern... Look up laser speckle in Wikipedia...
 

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