The Impact of Atmospheric Wind Speed on the Reliability and Performance of Free Space Optical (FSO) Communication Systems

This study explores the influence of atmospheric wind speed on the reliability and performance of Free Space Optical (FSO) communication systems. Atmospheric turbulence, largely induced by variations in wind velocity, distorts optical signal propagation through effects such as beam wander, scintillation, and attenuation. A simulated experimental setup comprising a laser Transmitter circuit, photodiode Receiver, and a potentiometer to emulate varying wind speeds—was used to prove its effect on the laser signal under varying wind speed. The simulation results indicate that increased turbulence demands higher transmitter current to maintain signal integrity. The simulation results also highlights the corresponding decrease of 0.22 V as the resistance of the potentiometer was increased to 1000 Ω.