Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2025

A Photonic System for Generating Unconditional Polarization-Entangled Photons Based on Multiple Quantum Interference
Published on: September 5, 2019
Robust Free-Space Optical Communication Utilizing Polarization for the Advancement of Quantum Communication
Nicholas Savino1, Jacob Leamer1, Ravi Saripalli2
1Department of Physics and Engineering Physics, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA.
Polarization of light in free-space optical communication is preserved despite underwater bubble turbulence. This finding offers potential improvements for polarization-based FSO systems.
Area of Science:
- Optical communication
- Photonics
- Turbulence effects on light propagation
Background:
- Free-space optical (FSO) communication systems face signal distortion and loss due to non-uniform media.
- Polarization properties of light are sensitive to environmental disturbances.
- Underwater and atmospheric turbulence pose significant challenges for reliable FSO links.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of underwater bubble-induced turbulence on the polarization state of light in FSO communication.
- To assess the preservation of the state of polarization (SOP) and degree of polarization (DOP) under turbulent conditions.
- To compare experimental findings with simulation models of underwater and atmospheric turbulence.
Main Methods:
- Experimental demonstration using a novel, low-cost setup to simulate underwater FSO communication.
- Computational simulation modeling the effects of underwater bubbles and atmospheric turbulence on light polarization.
- Comparative analysis of experimental results and simulation data.
Main Results:
- The state of polarization (SOP) and degree of polarization (DOP) of light are shown to be preserved when propagating through underwater bubbles.
- Experimental data aligns with simulation results, validating the models used.
- The proposed experimental setup is effective for long-distance atmospheric or underwater testing.
Conclusions:
- Underwater bubble turbulence does not significantly degrade the polarization properties of light in FSO systems.
- Polarization-based FSO communication schemes can be potentially improved based on these findings.
- The developed experimental approach offers a cost-effective method for FSO channel characterization.
Related Concept Videos
Potential Due to a Polarized Object
Dielectric Polarization in a Capacitor
¹³C NMR: Distortionless Enhancement by Polarization Transfer (DEPT)
Propagation Speed of Electromagnetic Waves
Energy Stored In A Coaxial Cable
In the simplest form, a coaxial cable can be represented by two long hollow concentric cylinders in which the current flows in opposite directions. The magnetic field inside and outside the coaxial cable is determined by using Ampère's law. The magnetic...
Induced Electric Dipoles
Since the absolute value of potential energy holds no physical meaning, its zero value can be chosen as per...

