Work

Adaptive-waist modes for free-space optical communications

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Free-space optical communication systems are vulnerable to phase distortions and amplitude fluctuations caused by atmospheric turbulence, which degrade signal coherence and impair overall performance. Instead of correcting these distortions in real time, we propose an approach based on adaptive-waist modes statistically matched to the turbulence, assuming the transmitter has access to turbulence statistics but not to instantaneous atmospheric conditions. A fundamental Gaussian adaptive-waist mode maximizes power efficiency, while distributing power across multiple adaptive modes enhances link reliability by mitigating turbulence-induced fading. This tradeoff is quantitatively evaluated under varying turbulence conditions, demonstrating significant performance gains over standard Gaussian beams without requiring wavefront correction.

Source: Optics Letters

DOI: 10.1364/ol.565870

Author: Aniceto Belmonte

Institution: Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya

Language: English

Topic: Optical Wireless Communication Technologies

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: Agencia Estatal de Investigación

Award: G6027064067