Intelligent Automation in Free-Space Optical Communications: Atmospheric Turbulence Miti-gation Techniques and 6G Applications

Zidan Gmah Ali Mady; Salama Ghaith S. Alghiryan

Intelligent Automation in Free-Space Optical Communications: Atmospheric Turbulence Miti-gation Techniques and 6G Applications

Author(s)	Zidan Gmah Ali Mady, Salama Ghaith S. Alghiryan
Country	India
Abstract	Free-Space Optical (FSO) communications represent a transformative technology for next-generation telecommunications, offering ultra-high data rates, unlicensed spectrum, and inherent security advantages over conventional RF systems. However, system performance significantly degraded by atmospheric phenomena—particularly turbulence, fog, and rain—which pose fundamental challenges to widespread commercial deployment. This paper presents a comprehensive and in-depth review of advanced mitigation techniques for atmospheric effects, with particular emphasis on artificial intelligence-supported adaptive optics, spatial and temporal diversity strategies, and hybrid RF/FSO systems. We examine recent breakthroughs in deep learning-based turbulence estimation and prediction, reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) technologies, and optical phase conjugation systems that have achieved qualitative improvements in response time to dynamic atmospheric conditions. Furthermore, we explore emerging applications in space communications, underwater environments, and smart urban networks, highlighting the critical role of FSO systems in sixth-generation (6G) networks and space-air-ground integrated network (SAGIN) infrastructure. A comparative analysis of various mitigation techniques presented in terms of effectiveness, complexity, cost, and suitable applications. Our results demonstrate that optimized systems achieve Bit Error Rates (BER) as low as 1.49×10−151.49×10−15 over 2500 meters even under strong atmospheric turbulence, with link availability exceeding 99.999% when employing hybrid systems. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence with FSO systems reduces BER by up to 79% compared to conventional approaches. The paper concludes by identifying key challenges hindering widespread FSO deployment and presenting a future vision for innovative solutions, including AI-enabled systems, integration with quantum communications, and the development of unified standards—paving the way for a new generation of ultra-high-speed, reliable wireless communications.
Keywords	Free-Space Optical Communications, Atmospheric Turbulence, Adaptive Optics, MIMO-FSO, Hybrid RF/FSO, Deep Learning, Underwater Optical Wireless Communication, Satellite Laser Communications, 6G Networks, Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces.
Field	هندسة
Published In	Volume 17, Issue 2, April-June 2026
Published On	2026-06-30

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Intelligent Automation in Free-Space Optical Communications: Atmospheric Turbulence Miti-gation Techniques and 6G Applications

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