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Cn2_Modeling_for_Free-Space_Optical_Communications_A_Review.pdf
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Atmospheric turbulence influence on optical wave propagation, referred to as optical turbulence, has long been studied for astronomical applications and is now being addressed for free-space optical communication links between ground and satellites. While challenges overlap, models developed for astronomical applications are not fully transferable to optical communications. This paper provides a literature review of optical turbulence models, i.e., models giving vertical profiles of the refractive index structure parameter Cn2, highlighting differences between astronomical and optical communication sites. It presents different classifications of available Cn2 models, based on the atmospheric layer they target and their necessary input parameters. Boundary layer Cn2 models are also addressed, and recent machine learning approaches for Cn2 modeling are discussed. Additionally, commonly used metrics for comparing Cn2 profiles are introduced. Therefore, this work provides important insights into optical turbulence model selection, enabling accurate site characterization and informed optical terminal design.
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Quatresooz, F., & Oestges, C. (2025). Cn2 Modeling for Free-Space Optical Communications: A Review. IEEE Access, 13, 21279-21305. https://doi.org/10.1109/access.2025.3535093 (Original work published 2025)