The Physics of Light in Complex Underwater Environments: From Channel Modeling to High-Performance Optical Communication

The field of underwater optical communication is undergoing rapid transformation as researchers seek to address the physical limitations imposed by dynamic aquatic environments. Critical challenges arise from the inherent properties of water, such as absorption, scattering by suspended particulates, and turbulence-induced refractive index fluctuations. These physical phenomena profoundly affect the propagation of laser signals, leading to severe attenuation and distortion, thereby constraining the achievable data rates and transmission distances. While recent advances have led to the deployment of optical systems in clear and controlled laboratory settings, substantial gaps remain in understanding and optimizing performance across the broad spectrum of real-world environments, especially in turbid or mixed-condition waters.Recent studies have employed both empirical and theoretical approaches to characterize channel behavior, revealing new insights into the influence of varying water compositions and turbulence on signal degradation. These investigations have refined our knowledge of channel modeling, yet significant uncertainties persist regarding the interplay between fundamental physics and applied system performance in diverse environmental scenarios. There is ongoing debate concerning the adequacy of existing models to predict communication reliability and bandwidth, particularly in highly dynamic or unknown underwater conditions. Addressing these open questions is crucial as emerging applications—including remote sensing, environmental monitoring, and underwater robotics—demand robust, high-bandwidth communication links over greater distances and under less predictable circumstances.This Research Topic aims to advance our understanding of laser propagation in complex underwater environments and to translate that knowledge into practical optical communication solutions. Specifically, it seeks to bridge the divide between fundamental physical modeling and real-world system performance, supporting the development of next-generation technologies capable of reliable operation in challenging settings. We invite submissions that investigate advanced channel modeling, report on experimental characterization of underwater optics, and propose new approaches and architectures for overcoming environmental impediments to optical communication.Within the scope of this Research Topic, we focus on the intersection of physical light-water interaction and the optimization of optical data transmission in underwater contexts. Submissions should address the interplay between environmental physics and communication technology but need not be limited to specific geographic locales or water types. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:-Novel theoretical and computational models of underwater laser propagation-Experimental characterization of optical channels in varying underwater environments-Effects of absorption, scattering, and turbulence on signal integrity and bandwidth-Design of adaptive optical communication systems for dynamic aquatic conditions-Performance analysis of new modulation, coding, and detection techniques-Integration of physical modeling into practical network planning and deployment strategies Topic editors: Mingjian Cheng, Yi Xiang, Rajib Biswas Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80640/the-physics-of-light-in-complex-underwater-environments-from-channel-modeling-to-high-performance-optical-communication